monthly museum and art exhibition guides

The best museums and galleries | London exhibitions this month

Maritime wonders, photography, dogs, milk, and dinosaurs feature in our museums and art galleries guide for March 2023. Here are the best London exhibitions this month.


The Van de Veldes at Queen’s House, Greenwich

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© National Maritime Museum, London

From the tumultuous depths of the sea to the serene tranquillity of a calm ocean, the maritime works of Willem Van de Veldes, Elder and Younger are a testament to their unparalleled artistry. These masterful painters captured the essence of maritime life with breathtaking precision, from the raging naval battles to the gentle ebb and flow of the tide. With a studio at the illustrious Queen’s House in Greenwich, the Van de Veldes’ timeless works have returned to their place of origin after 350 years. Embark on a journey through history and immerse yourself in their spectacular paintings, tapestries, and drawings, all on display for your viewing pleasure.

The Van de Veldes: Greenwich, Art and the Sea at Queen’s House, Greenwich. 2 March-14 June, free.


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A Hard Man is Good to Find & Deutsche Börse Prize at The Photographers’ Gallery

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Queer photography, courtesy of Rupert Smith Collection

Indulge in a visual feast with not one but two stunning exhibitions showcasing the art of photography. The first exhibition spans 60 years of queer photography, boasting an array of chiselled physiques and form-fitting attire that are sure to tantalise the senses. Alongside this, the prestigious Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation Prize is on display, featuring four shortlisted artists who delve deep into profound and weighty topics, including race, sexuality, and a missing person.

The works on display are a poignant reminder of the power of photography to capture the essence of the human experience and provoke deep reflection. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating world of photography at its finest.

A Hard Man is Good to Find! and Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation Prize at The Photographers’ Gallery. 3 March-11 June, £6.50.

Anthony Caro at Pitzhanger

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Copyright John Hammond.

Marvel at the extraordinary painted metal sculptures of the late and great Anthony Caro, displayed amidst a breathtaking and storied setting. The exhibition delves into Caro’s pioneering techniques in using materials and forms and his pivotal role in shaping the course of modern sculpture.

A captivating assortment of Caro’s large-scale installations, complete with steps and doors, awaits you, offering a one-of-a-kind chance to immerse yourself in the mesmerising beauty and profound depth of his work. Witness the fascinating way Caro’s sculptures have crossed over into architecture, and behold the legacy of a true master in the art of sculpture. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to experience the genius of Anthony Caro’s remarkable creations.

Anthony Caro: The Inspiration of Architecture at Pitzhanger. 9 March-10 September, £9.90.


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Evelyn De Morgan at Leighton House

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Copyright Leighton House and Sambourne House (KCMuseums)

Enter the captivating world of artist Evelyn de Morgan and immerse yourself in her stunning series of works that explore themes of femininity, spirituality, and the renunciation of material wealth – all masterfully created with the use of gold pigment. Setting her apart from her contemporaries in the Pre-Raphaelite movement, de Morgan utilised an innovative technique that was truly ahead of its time.

Where better to showcase the radiance of these gold drawings than within the lavish interiors of the Leighton House Museum? Marvel at the interplay of light and shadow and the intricate details that bring de Morgan’s vision to life. This exhibition is a must-see for anyone seeking transport to a world of ethereal beauty and transcendent artistry.

Evelyn De Morgan: The Gold Drawings at Leighton House. 11 March-27 August, free.

Sebastião Salgado at Flowers Gallery

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Dramatic view of an oil field. Copyright Sebastião Salgado, courtesy Flowers Gallery.

Experience the awe-inspiring world of legendary photographer Sebastião Salgado as he presents a curated selection of his best works spanning nearly five decades. From breathtaking landscapes to intimate portraits of indigenous peoples, and the impact of humanity on the environment, Salgado’s masterful black-and-white photography captures the essence of our world in all its beauty and complexity.

His previous exhibitions have left audiences spellbound, earning him critical acclaim and accolades. Now, witness the return of the king of black and white photography as he showcases his latest collection of extraordinary works. Don’t miss this opportunity to be moved by the power and beauty of Salgado’s photographs once again, as he invites us to see the world through his lens.

Sebastião Salgado: Magnum Opus at Flowers, Cork Street. 16 March-15 April, free.

After Impressionism at The National Gallery

Paul Cezanne's Bathers. © National Gallery, London

Paul Cezanne’s Bathers. © National Gallery, London

Explore the transformative impact of Impressionism on the art world with the National Gallery’s stunning exhibition. Journey through the groundbreaking works of Monet, Cézanne, Van Gogh, and others, as they paved the way for the revolutionary movements of Cubism and Abstraction.

The exhibition features dozens of works that showcase the evolution of art during this pivotal era. Also on display is a free one-room exhibit exploring beauty and satire in Renaissance art, featuring Quinten Massys’ famous painting, ‘the Ugly Duchess.’ Don’t miss this unmissable opportunity to witness the transformative power of art firsthand.

After Impressionism: Inventing Modern Art at The National Gallery. 25 March-13 August, £24-26.

The Ugly Duchess: Beauty and Satire in the Renaissance. 16 March-11 June, free.

Portraits of Dogs at The Wallace Collection

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Painting by Edwin Landseer. Image copyright The Wallace Collection.

The Wallace Collection welcomes visitors to indulge in a heartwarming celebration of the beloved companions that have brought joy to countless generations of humans. ‘A Dog’s Life: Stories of Our Best Friends’ showcases works by legendary artists such as Gainsborough, Leonardo da Vinci, David Hockney, and Lucian Freud, who have all captured the unique beauty and character of man’s best friend.

Commissioning portraits of one’s pets may seem like a modern trend, but this practice has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. Prepare to be charmed and captivated by these furry muses’ sheer cuteness and loyalty as they take centre stage in a delightful celebration of the enduring bond between humans and their faithful companions. Join us for an unforgettable experience to warm your heart and uplift your spirit.

Portraits of Dogs: From Gainsborough to Hockney at The Wallace Collection. 29 March – 15 October, £14.


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Milk at Wellcome Collection

Milk badges promoting its benefits. Copyright Wellcome Collection

Milk badges promoting its benefits. Copyright Wellcome Collection

Explore the fascinating history of milk and its place in our cultural narrative at the Wellcome Collection. From the childhood admonition to drink milk for strong bones and teeth to the rise of plant-based alternatives, the exhibition delves into the science and marketing behind our perception of milk.

Unpack the evolution of advertising milk’s nutritional value, from the iconic milk moustache campaigns to today’s shifting attitudes towards milk consumption. This exhibit promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of how milk has shaped our culture and society. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to engage with this timely and important topic.

Milk at Wellcome Collection. 30 March-10 September, free.

Titanosaur at Natural History Museum

Titanosaur National History Museum

Patagotitan, the largest creature ever roamed the Earth, takes centre stage at the Natural History Museum. Witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of this prehistoric giant, which dwarfs even beloved former resident Dippy. The exhibition features a remarkable cast that allows visitors to imagine the unprecedented scale of this magnificent creature. Explore the lifestyle and diet of the Patagotitan and marvel at a replica of its skull that visitors can touch.

This exhibit offers a rare glimpse into a world of ancient natural wonders and is sure to leave visitors awestruck by this remarkable creature’s sheer size and majesty. Don’t miss this special opportunity to experience the grandeur of Patagotitan for yourself.

Titanosaur: Life as the Biggest Dinosaur at Natural History Museum. 31 March-7 January 2024, £16 (£9 children). 


READ MORE: National Portrait Gallery exhibitions announced ahead of June 2023 reopening


Berthe Morisot at Dulwich Picture Gallery

Eugene Manet (1834-92) on the Isle of Wight (oil on canvas)

Eugene Manet on the Isle of Wight (oil on canvas) by Morisot, Berthe (1841-95),  MUSEE MARMOTTAN MONET, PARIS

This exhibition offers a unique perspective on the Impressionist movement by highlighting one of its pioneering women, Berthe Morisot. Often overlooked in discussions of this revolutionary era, Morisot’s art captures the intimate beauty of everyday life with depictions of fashion, interiors, and tender moments shared between loved ones. The exhibition features 40 of her most breathtaking works, providing a rare opportunity to explore the talents and legacy of this groundbreaking female artist.

Don’t miss this chance to gain new insights into the Impressionist movement and discover the remarkable art of Berthe Morisot. Join us for a journey into this extraordinary artist’s world and experience her work’s beauty firsthand.

Berthe Morisot at Dulwich Picture Gallery. 31 March-10 September, £16.50.

Andy Warhol at Fashion and Textile Museum

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© 2022 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. Licensed by DACS, London

At the Fashion and Textile Museum, gain insight into the early career of Pop Art legend Andy Warhol. While his Marilyn Monroe and Campbell’s Soup paintings are his most famous works, Warhol’s career began with textile designs featuring ice cream sundaes, pretzels, and clowns. Witness the evolution of his unique artistic vision and gain a deeper understanding of the creative roots that led to his legendary status.

This exhibition provides a rare opportunity to experience the beauty and power of Warhol’s early creations firsthand and discover his remarkable artistic career’s lesser-known but equally stunning facets. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the dynamic and vibrant world of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

Andy Warhol: The Textiles at Fashion and Textile Museum. 31 March-10 September, £12.65.


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