The must-see Art Exhibitions in 2024

As the art world gears up for a thrilling 2024, an array of must-see exhibitions promises to captivate enthusiasts and novices alike. From the architectural marvels of I.M. Pei to the sculptural innovations of Brâncuși, and the introspective landscapes of Caspar David Friedrich, this year offers a unique opportunity to traverse the globe through art. Whether it's the emotional depth of the Expressionists or the Renaissance brilliance of Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Raphael, each exhibition invites viewers into a world where history, culture, and creativity converge, offering profound insights into the human experience.

Paris, March 27 - July 1, 2024

Brâncuși show dedicates itself to highlighting Constantin Brâncuși's trailblazing contributions to modern sculpture. This exhibition delves into Brâncuși's revolutionary approach to materials and his philosophical musings on the essence and simplicity of art. By showcasing his mastery in transforming stone, wood, and metal into abstract forms that communicate a deeper spiritual reality, the exhibition elucidates Brâncuși's belief in art as a pathway to understanding universal truths, thereby cementing his status as a vanguard of the avant-garde.

London, May 2 - July 28

Michelangelo: The Last Decades in London turns the spotlight on the pivotal concluding chapter of Michelangelo Buonarroti's illustrious career. It presents a carefully curated selection of his later works, underscoring the profound influence these creations have exerted on the domains of sculpture, painting, and architecture. This exhibition offers a deep dive into Michelangelo’s enduring quest for artistic perfection and innovation, even in his final years, showcasing pieces that reflect his continued exploration of human anatomy, religious themes, and expressive potency.

London, November 9 - February 16, 2025

Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael exhibition affords a rare glimpse into the collective genius of the Renaissance’s most revered artists. This gathering of masterpieces from Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael Sanzio is a celebration of their unparalleled contributions to art, illustrating how their interconnected legacies have shaped the course of Western art history. Through side-by-side comparisons, the exhibition highlights each artist's distinct approach to composition, technique, and thematic exploration, offering insights into the competitive yet fertile Renaissance milieu that spurred their creative genius.

Hong Kong, June 29 - January 31, 2025

The exhibition pays homage to the monumental career of Ieoh Ming Pei, showcasing his architectural marvels that have left an indelible mark on the skyline of numerous cities around the globe. It explores Pei's modernist ethos, his adept use of geometric forms, and his philosophical reflections on light, space, and structure. Featuring models, sketches, and photographs of his most iconic projects, the show illuminates Pei's legacy as a master of modern architecture, whose designs embody a harmonious blend of traditional elements and cutting-edge innovation.

London, Ocotber 10 - January 19, 2025

The distorted, punished people in Bacon’s art are often more like images of the human condition (not good, according to Bacon) than portraits. Yet he had a sharp, ultimately loving eye for the people he knew best, from George Dyer to Henrietta Moraes to Lucian Freud. This meaty delve into Bacon’s Soho, so close to this gallery, will send you reeling to its bars. 

London, April 18 - July 21

The Last Caravaggio zeroes in on the intense drama and emotional depth characterizing the final works of Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. This exhibition sheds light on Caravaggio’s enduring impact on the Baroque period and beyond, showcasing his mastery of chiaroscuro and his unflinching realism. Through a selection of his late paintings, the exhibition reveals Caravaggio’s profound influence on the depiction of human emotion and the dramatic potential of art, tracing his legacy through the works of subsequent generations of artists.

Cambridge, February 23 - May 19

William Blake's Universe merges the poetic and visual artistry of William Blake, offering a window into his mystical and revolutionary worldview. This exhibition traverses Blake's expansive oeuvre, from his illuminated manuscripts to his engravings, presenting his complex visions of society, religion, and art. By emphasizing Blake’s integration of text and image, the show invites viewers to explore his idiosyncratic universe, where mythological beings and visionary landscapes serve as metaphors for his critiques and aspirations for humanity.

London, April 25 - October 28, 2025

Theisexhibition delves into the core themes of the Expressionist movement, focusing on emotion, subjective experience, and the quest to transcend traditional aesthetics. Featuring a selection of works characterized by their bold use of colour and dynamic compositions, the exhibition highlights how Expressionist artists sought to convey the turmoil and intensity of the human psyche, challenging viewers to confront the raw and unfiltered dimensions of human experience.

London, September 14 - January 19, 2025

Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers examines Vincent van Gogh’s interpersonal relationships and their profound impact on his artistic output. This exhibition unveils the deep emotional and intellectual connections that Van Gogh forged with his contemporaries, offering insights into how these relationships influenced his approach to colour, form, and subject matter. Through letters, sketches, and paintings, attendees can explore the complex web of influences that shaped Van Gogh’s work, revealing the deeply personal nature of his creative process.

 Bath, September 27 - January 5, 2025

It juxtaposes the works of Paula Rego and Francisco de Goya, drawing parallels between their exploration of the human condition, power dynamics, and the realm of fantasy. This exhibition highlights how both artists used their canvases to challenge societal norms and express their unique perspectives on the absurdities and injustices of their respective eras. By presenting Rego’s and Goya’s works side by side, the show invites a comparative analysis of their techniques and themes, underscoring their shared interest in the darker aspects of humanity.

Berlin, April 19 - August 4

Lastly, the exhibition dedicated to Caspar David Friedrich offers a contemplative journey through Friedrich’s evocative landscapes, embodying the Romantic spirit of introspection and the quest for the sublime. Through his meticulous attention to detail and his use of atmospheric effects, Friedrich’s paintings invite viewers to reflect on humanity’s place within the natural world, encouraging a sense of wonder and a deeper connection to the transcendent qualities of the environment. This exhibition not only celebrates Friedrich’s mastery of landscape painting but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to evoke emotional and spiritual responses in the viewer.