Tabish Khan, the @LondonArtCritic, picks his Top 5 Museum Exhibitions to see in London in August. Check out the previous top 5 if you’re after more shows to visit.
Virtual Beauty at Somerset House
What does it mean to be beautiful today and how has the digital age changed that? The exhibition starts with an early Samsung smartphone, one of the first with a front-facing camera, alongside some iconic celebrity selfies. It gets more disturbing with AI filters and a handbag designed to resemble a human womb, making a strong statement about future designer babies. It made me think what beauty standards will be in 50 years. Until 28th September, pay what you can.
Permindar Kaur: Mirror, Mirror at Pitzhanger
Her cuddly entities have a spiky side – the cute meets the sinister. They are under beds, hanging on walls and scattered throughout the manor. They reference both her family heritage and tie into the history of the country house, with some of her figures bearing antlers, much like the trophies found in stately homes. Welcome to the world of Permindar Kaur at Pitzhanger. Until 21st September, ticketed.
Royal Society of Sculptors Summer show at Burgh House
While Dora House, its usual home, is getting a refurb, the Royal Society of Sculptors is hosting its summer show in Burgh House in Hampstead. The change-up also presents a whole host of fascinating sculpture, whether it’s Gary Power’s tower of colourful containers, Michael Coombs’ cabinet that appears to be melting or Sue Hubbard’s playful pigeon delivery to reflect on the cost of living crisis. It’s a diverse and talented array of sculptors on show. Until 21st September, free.
Morris Mania: How Britain’s greatest designer went viral at William Morris Gallery
Fashion, wallpaper, mugs, a bicycle and lucky waving cats. William Morris’ patterns can be found everywhere, and I imagine he had no idea this is what would become of his legacy. It’s a fun show that brings together a titan of art history and pop culture. It’s a clever exhibition for a free museum whose small exhibitions consistently punch above their weight. Until 21st September, free.
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award 2025 at National Portrait Gallery
I’ve been regularly visiting this annual portrait prize, and while it’s always included talented artists, this year feels like it’s had a fresh injection. The works feel more diverse, not just in the persons depicted, but also in the styles of painting. It demonstrates that portrait painting is alive and thriving. Until 12th October, free.
Somerset House photo copyright David Parry, PA Media Assignments. Pitzhanger photo: Julian Abrams. Royal Society of Sculptors photo: Mike Glide Photography. Morris Mania photo: Nicola Tree © William Morris Gallery, London Borough of Waltham Forest. Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer aware image copyright National Portrait Gallery.
