The Best Art Exhibitions in London 2021

As we start to make plans for coming out of lockdown in the next few months, the art world is opening up too. From antiques, to fine art and photography there are many events and exhibitions popping up all over London for 2021. London is one of the most exciting destinations in the world when it comes to art and, although the past 12 months may have been quiet in terms of exhibitions, that all looks set to change with a schedule of festivals, fairs and exhibitions – both online and IRL – that are designed to showcase the best that the art world has to offer. These are just some of the best art exhibitions and art installation projects to put in your calendar in London this year.

The Other Art Fair (July)

While virtual editions of The Other Art Fair have already taken place in March, thanks to restrictions lifting the July in-person event looks likely to go ahead. The virtual event featured more than 75 artists whose work was exhibited across three virtual rooms. Details of the event in July have yet to be released but it will no doubt have the same mix of exciting work that the event has become renowned for.

The Affordable Art Fair (April – May)

This year The Affordable Art Fair is an online event all about discovering the joy of art. The works here start at just £50 meaning that this is one art fair that really lives up to its name. There are 1,000+ pieces to view here drawn from artists all over the world and in many different mediums, from paint to sculpture and photography. There’s also a schedule of talks and advisory sessions running at the same time for those who want to know more about the art and the artists.

London Design Biennale (June)

Resonance is the theme for this year’s biennale – “How can design provide solutions to major challenges of our time?” There will be a number of different installations to view including ‘Forests of Change,’ which will feature 400 trees positioned in the centre of Somerset House designed as a response to the  United Nations’ Global Goals for Sustainable Development.

Masterpiece (June)

Last year this exhibition took place entirely online. While still exceptionally entertaining the exhibition’s normal location – the Royal Hospital in Chelsea – is hard to beat. That’s why it’s great news to see that this year’s Masterpiece will be returning to Chelsea in June 2021 with its international schedule of pieces in art, jewellery, design and furniture.

The London Design Festival (September)

This is an event not to be missed for art and design fans. Installations, events and exhibitions take place across London and this year the London Design Festival promises to be bigger and more impressive than it has ever been before. One of the highlights from 2020 was a large-scale replica of a Victorian hothouse by Studio Weave.

Frieze London (October)

Frieze is a legendary event in the London art calendar but was cancelled in 2020 thanks to COVID-19. This year it’s set to return with a bang, including the event’s first ever exhibition space with two london townhouses converted to visitor gallery spaces open all year round.

At Scott Fleary we work with some of the best artists in the country to bring their art installation projects to life! Get in touch if you want to discuss your latest exhibition.