Summer Art Guide: Europe's Must-See Exhibitions

The sun is shining, the days are longer, and Europe's cultural scene is bursting with vibrant exhibitions. From groundbreaking contemporary works to iconic masterpieces, there's a show for every artistic appetite. So, pack your bags (or bookmark this article for later!) and prepare to embark on an inspiring art adventure across the continent.

Portugal

Underdogs Gallery R. Fernando Palha 56, 1950-132 Lisboa

Lisbon: Until August 10th, catch Ana Aragão's first solo exhibition at Underdogs Gallery, "Monopolis." This thought-provoking exploration of housing issues is a must-see for design and social commentary enthusiasts.

Galeria Nuno Centeno Rua da Alegria 598, 4000-037 Porto

Porto: Coming Soon (September 2024): Look for the intriguing Filipe Marques exhibition "ALL ANIMALS ARE BAD, ALL OF THEM ARE A MEAL AWAY FROM BARBARITY" at Galeria Nuno Centeno

Italy

*© The Easton Foundation/Licensed by SIAE 2024 and VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY. Ph.by A.Osio*

Galleria Borghese Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 5, 00197 Roma RM, Italy

Witness the groundbreaking shift at the Galleria Borghese as they present their first-ever solo exhibition by a female contemporary artist, Louise Bourgeois. Until September 15th, explore 20 sculptures meticulously placed throughout the museum, sparking a captivating dialogue with the historic collection.

Galleria Continua Via del Castello 11 53037 San Gimignano

Ai Weiwei takes centre stage at Galleria Continua. "Neither Nor," running until September, showcases his diverse artistic voice through Lego, porcelain, marble, and more. The exhibition title underscores the ambiguity Ai Weiwei seeks to explore, encouraging a deeper engagement with his work.

Germany

Museum Brandhorst Theresienstraße 35a, 80333 München, Germany

Dive into pop culture through the lens of Andy Warhol and Keith Haring at Museum Brandhorst's "Party of Life" exhibition. From June 28th, 2024, to January 26th, 2025, delve into over 120 works, including collaborations and pieces reflecting the vibrant energy of the 1980s.

Pinakothek der Moderne Barer Str. 40, 80333 München, Germany

Have you ever wondered about the evolution of bicycle design? Pinakothek der Moderne explores this fascinating topic in "The Bicycle. Cult Object - Design Object" until September 22nd. Witness 70 iconic examples that redefine the boundaries of design and functionality.

UK

Saatchi Gallery Duke of York's HQ, King's Rd, London SW3 4RY, United Kingdom

"Beyond Fashion" (May 31st – September 8th) showcases fashion photography at its finest. Curated by Nathalie Herschdorfer, the exhibition celebrates how fashion photography transcended mere product presentation, becoming a powerful platform for artistic expression.

Design Museum 224-238 Kensington High St, London W8 6AG, United Kingdom

\Until September 8th, immerse yourself in the world of Enzo Mari, the 20th century's design giant. This retrospective, curated by Hans Ulrich Obrist and Francesca Giacomelli, showcases his furniture, conceptual installations, and more, solidifying his legacy as a champion of social responsibility within design.

Monaco

Grimaldi Forum 10 Av. Princesse Grâce, 98000 Monaco

"Turner's Sublime Legacy: In Dialogue with Contemporary Artists" (until September 1st) brings together the visionary works of J.M.W. Turner with the inspired creations of contemporary artists he influenced. Witness the enduring power of his legacy through this unique dialogue.

Nouveau Musée National de Monaco 56 Bd du Jardin Exotique, 98000 Monaco

Until October 13th, explore the captivating world of Spanish painter Miquel Barceló in a stunning solo exhibition. Witness his profound connection to the ocean through 60 paintings, ceramics, and embroideries.

France

LUMA Arles 33 Av. Victor Hugo, 13200 Arles, France

"Lee Friedlander Framed by Joel Coen" at LUMA Arles offers a fresh perspective on the renowned photographer's work. Curated by the acclaimed director Joel Coen, the exhibition highlights Friedlander's innovative approach to framing and showcases works from the 1960s to the present day.

Mucem, 1 Esp. J4, 13002 Marseille, France

"Shared passions: From Basquiat to Edith Piaf" at the Mucem presents a captivating conversation between modern and contemporary art. Until September 23rd, explore the works of diverse artists like Basquiat and Louise Lawler alongside ethnographic artefacts and objects from Provençal culture.

Spain

Hauser & Wirth Menorca Diseminado, Illa del Rei, S/N, 07700, Illes Balears, Spain

Hauser & Wirth Menorca presents a solo exhibition by Roni Horn (until October 27th), showcasing pivotal works that explore identity, meaning, and perception. The centrepiece, "Untitled ('A witch is more lovely than thought in the mountain rain')," is a mesmerising installation that interacts with the ever-changing natural light.

Museo Picasso, C. San Agustín, 8, Distrito Centro, 29015 Málaga, Spain

Photography enthusiasts won't want to miss "Joel Meyerowitz: Europa 1966-1967" at Museo Picasso. This exhibition delves into Meyerowitz's captivating journey across Europe and showcases photographs taken during his six months in Málaga in 1966.

Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

For those seeking an exploration of Surrealism, consider visiting Brussels for "IMAGINE! 100 Years of International Surrealism" at The Royal Museums of Fine Arts.

We'll delve deeper into some of these exhibitions throughout the summer, offering exclusive insights and interviews with artists and curators. So, remember to follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.