As we kick off 2026, there’s an exciting noise in the art world. The early months of the year are packed with exhibitions that promise to inspire, challenge, and transport us. Art often serves as a mirror, reflecting society’s triumphs and troubles or offering an escape into worlds born of imagination and bold visions. This year, a diverse lineup of exhibitions showcases both established artists and intriguing new perspectives.
Wolfgang Tillmans at Regan Projects
The latest exhibition by Wolfgang Tillmans, titled Keep Movin’, promises an intriguing mix of photography and innovative techniques. After making waves last year at the Centre Pompidou in Paris, Tillmans brings his unique vision to the UK. Highlights include striking images from a metalworking factory in his hometown of Remscheid and cameraless ‘light contaminations’ featuring photographic paper exposed to bright light. The exhibition also includes Truth Study Centre, an ongoing project critiquing contemporary discourse. Catch it at Regan Projects, London, from January 15 to March 1.
David Lynch at Die Tankstelle Berlin
Renowned filmmaker David Lynch showcases his surreal artistry in a Berlin exhibition. Known for his films, Lynch now turns his eye to painting, sculpting, and early short films. Expect surreal frames he designed himself and haunting images of decaying Berlin factories. The exhibition runs from January 29 to March 22, leading up to a major fall exhibition at Pace Gallery, Los Angeles.
Jean-Michel Basquiat at Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Explore the vibrant world of Jean-Michel Basquiat with Headstrong: Basquiat on Paper. This collection of 45 artworks focuses on the human head, a motif crucial to Basquiat’s artistic exploration. These oil stick drawings, mostly created in the early 1980s, pulse with immediacy and emotion. On display from January 30 to May 17 in Denmark.
Lucian Freud at National Portrait Gallery
Delve into the intricate world of Lucian Freud with the exhibition Drawing Into Painting. Spanning from early sketches to later masterpieces, the show highlights Freud’s reliance on drawing as part of his artistic process. Enjoy a glimpse into the intimate collection from February 12 to May 4 in London.
Kyotographie 2026 in Kyoto
This year, the Kyotographie International Photography Festival celebrates its 14th edition with the theme ‘Edge’. Featuring influential artists like Daido Moriyama and Linder Sterling, the festival offers a rich program of talks, workshops, and exhibitions spread across the city from April 18 to May 17.
Helter Skelter at Fondazione Prada
Don’t miss Helter Skelter, a dynamic installation by Arthur Jafa and Richard Prince during the Biennale in Venice. Running from May 9 to November 23, this exhibition explores their unique approaches to image manipulation and cultural commentary.
Ana Mendieta at Tate Modern
Explore the profound work of Cuban-American artist Ana Mendieta in London. Known for her Super 8 Silueta Series, Mendieta’s art grapples with themes of presence, absence, and nature. The retrospective opens on July 9, running until January 10, 2027.
The 90s at Tate Britain
Curated by Edward Enninful, The 90s exhibition is a nostalgic dive into a transformative decade. Featuring artists like Juergen Teller, Nick Knight, and Damien Hirst, it highlights the era’s creative crossovers between art and pop culture. Visit from October 8, 2026, to February 14, 2027.
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