Spotlight on London: Unmissable exhibitions in the UK capital this fall 2025
September 18, 2025
From internationally renowned institutions to local favorites, London offers a vibrant variety of art and cultural attractions. From experimental design to cheeky ceramics, and outdoor photography to neon word sculptures, we’ve worked across our cultural partners to highlight some not-to-miss exhibitions in London — all featured on Bloomberg Connects.
More Than Human / PLATFORM: Bethan Laura Wood
At the Design Museum until October 5, 2025 / January 25, 2026
Devoted to contemporary design in all its forms, the Design Museum displays innovative solutions for architecture, fashion, products, and graphics. The museum’s aim is to change the way people think about themselves and the future, through the transformative potential of experimental design.
This is evident in their exhibition More Than Human, which considers how design could help the planet thrive by embracing other species and systems, rather than just catering to humans. Examples of radical thinking include Andrés Jaque’s Transspecies Rosette, Shimabuku’s Sculpture for Octopuses, and Julia Lohmann’s Kelp Council, which all contribute new ways of viewing the world around us.
Launched this year, the annual PLATFORM programme showcases the work of an individual or studio whose work is making an impact on contemporary design. The inaugural display features multi-disciplinary designer Bethan Laura Wood, whose work celebrates individuality and maximalism in a riot of colour, pattern, and texture.
Sculpture in the City (14th Edition)
Across the City of London until Spring 2026
Sculpture in the City (SITC) is an urban sculpture park that hosts an annual exhibition amidst the architectural landmarks of the Square Mile’s financial district. Since its creation in 2011, SITC has shown 165 works by 140 artists, which can be explored in their archive of past editions.
The 14th Edition highlights 11 outdoor sculptures by renowned and emerging artists, including Ai Weiwei, Jane and Louise Wilson, Maya Rose Edwards, and Samuel Ross. The art trail includes unique sound clips from selected artists. It is complemented by a family audio trail (narrated by Horrible Histories’ Martha Howe-Douglas) and a free activation programme of events.
Lisa Barnard: The Canary and the Hammer
At The Photographers’ Gallery until May 31, 2026
In the heart of central London, The Photographers’ Gallery explores how the medium connects, captivates, and changes our world. They aim to inspire conversation and collaboration through contemporary photography exhibitions, publications, workshops, and archives. The Soho Photography Quarter (SPQ) is a dynamic pedestrianized zone outside the gallery where visitors can experience world-class photography for free, day or night.
Currently on view in SPQ, British photographer Lisa Barnard’s The Canary and the Hammer explores the troubled history of gold. Revered for its lustre and economic stability, gold is also associated with ecological destruction and human exploitation. Barnard’s project was prompted by the 2008 financial crisis and was captured across four years and four continents.
Grayson Perry: Delusions of Grandeur
At The Wallace Collection until October 26, 2025
The Wallace Collection is known for its outstanding historical collection – including European paintings (17th-19th century), decorative arts, and armor – which was amassed over five generations by the marquesses of Hertford.
Contemporary artists are invited to create new works in response to the collection, such as Sir Grayson Perry, whose gender-bending perspective blends “feminine” Rococo with “masculine” armor. Delusions of Grandeur is the largest contemporary exhibition ever held at the museum, with over 40 new works by the Turner Prize winner.
These include his trademark ceramics, large-scale tapestries, and works on paper, shown alongside masterpieces from The Wallace Collection that inspired him. The exhibition coincides with Perry’s 65th birthday, and the accompanying audio guide is voiced by the artist himself. Known for his social and political commentary, Perry says that, in this exhibition, he has followed the impulse to create “covetable,” “decorative,” and “pleasing” objects which may not align with his agenda to “tease the establishment.”
Whether you are based in London or just visiting, there are plenty of exciting cultural institutions and exhibitions to discover on Bloomberg Connects. The main screen will show those nearest to you, or you can filter by type (including outdoor sculpture or photography) to find something that suits your mood.
