Discover the Provocative World of Gilbert & George: A Must-See London Art Exhibition

London is buzzing with incredible exhibitions right now, from the unique Marie Antoinette showcase to the upcoming Agatha Christie event and the soon-ending Cartier display. The city's galleries and museums offer something for every taste. Adding to this vibrant scene, the Southbank Centre's Hayward Gallery is launching an exciting new exhibition that will captivate art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. It's a celebration of the legendary London-based artists Gilbert & George with their brand-new exhibition, '21ST CENTURY PICTURES'.

Gilbert & George FUNKY, 2020. 118 ⅞ x 174 13/16 in (302 x 444 cm). © Gilbert & George

Opening on October 7, 2025, this exhibition will feature over 60 floor-to-ceiling installations that explore the evolution of Gilbert & George's art over their career. It highlights how technology has enhanced their ability to reflect contemporary society. Embracing their love for the 21st century—they proclaim, "IT IS OUR BEST CENTURY SO FAR!"—the show takes visitors on a journey through modern life as seen through the artists' eyes.

Gilbert & George are renowned for their expansive pieces that blend images and text from everyday life, creating vivid pictures that spark dialogue about social norms and taboos. Their striking artworks are bright and confronting, demanding attention while addressing complex themes like sex, religion, corruption, class, and death without offering simplistic messages.

Gilbert & George SEX MONEY RACE RELIGION, 2016. Dimensions variable © Gilbert & George. Courtesy of Gilbert & George, Fondation Louis Vuitton, Paris and White Cube

What to Expect at '21ST CENTURY PICTURES'

The exhibition showcases works created since 2000, including pieces from series like NEW HORNY PICTURES (2001), THE LONDON PICTURES (2011), and THE CORPSING PICTURES (2022). Visitors will witness how the artists' art has grown in scale and complexity. It also debuts two new works from their THE SCREW PICTURES series, where Gilbert & George confront their own mortality.

Mark Ball, Artistic Director of the Southbank Centre, shared: "The Southbank Centre is proud to welcome back the legendary cultural provocateurs Gilbert & George, 28 years after their last Hayward Gallery show. As a great disruptive force in Britain’s art industry, their work helps us look at the world around us afresh and reconsider the familiar—this time modern London—through their unique perspective. No art historical knowledge is needed and everyone is welcome—just bring yourself, be yourself, and think for yourself."

Gilbert & George METALEPSY, 2008. 150 x 237 13/16 in. (381 x 604 cm) © Gilbert & George. Courtesy White Cube

Gilbert & George: '21ST CENTURY PICTURES' will run at the Hayward Gallery from October 7, 2025, to January 11, 2026. Tickets and more information are available on the Southbank Centre website.