LONDON, January 23, 2026 — A captivating exhibition showcasing the abstract works of New York artist Jessica Rankin opened today at White Cube Mason’s Yard, offering a lyrical and seductive exploration of embroidery and painting. The show, running through February 28, immediately establishes itself as a key event in London’s vibrant art scene.
A Diverse Range of Visions
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Beyond Rankin’s work, a compelling array of exhibitions are currently on display across the UK, spanning from pop art icons to poignant landscapes and experimental performance art.
- Andy Warhol’s enduring influence is on display at Lakeside Arts in Nottingham, running from January 24 to April 19.
- Patrick Heide Contemporary Art in London presents “As Long As It Takes,” an intriguing look at the intersection of drawing and performance art, until March 7.
- Bernard Jacobson Gallery in London pays homage to John Constable with works by David Hockney and others, from January 29 to February 27.
- Sprovieri in London features the environmentally conscious arte povera artist Mario Merz, with a welcoming igloo sculpture, until March 13.
Capturing Everyday Life
A striking portrait of Henry, 78, a regular at Barras Market in Glasgow’s East End, has been recognized as one of the winning shots in this year’s Portrait of Britain competition. Captured by Stuart Edwards, the photograph depicts Henry, always impeccably dressed, stating, “How you doing, Henry, you good?” to which he replies, “Better than good – I’m lucky.” The image is a testament to the beauty found in everyday life.
What’s New in the Art World
Recent discoveries and discussions are shaping the art landscape. A 67,800-year-old hand shape found in an Indonesian cave may represent the world’s oldest known rock art. Ai Weiwei’s latest book, On Censorship, offers a compelling exploration of free speech in the age of artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, a retrospective of Beryl Cook’s work celebrates her playful and often provocative depictions of British life.
Loss and Legacy
The art world mourns the loss of Colombian artist Beatriz González, who passed away at the age of 93. González was celebrated for her potent and politically charged work. A new book also celebrates the vibrant history of crisp packet design in the UK, showcasing a golden age of creativity. Tracey Emin has curated an exhibition at the Carl Freedman Gallery in Margate, featuring works from artists who embrace a darker aesthetic.
A New Vision for the Hayward
Sally Tallant has been appointed as the new director of the Hayward Gallery in London, bringing a fresh perspective to one of the UK’s leading contemporary art spaces. The gallery is poised for an exciting new chapter under her leadership.
Masterpiece of the Week
The Madonna of Humility With Saints Mark and John by Lorenzo Veneziano, c.1366-70
This Venetian painting, created between 1366 and 1370, transcends traditional religious iconography with its tender depiction of a mother and child. The intimate connection between Mary and the infant Jesus is profoundly moving, capturing a moment of genuine human emotion. Veneziano’s work reflects a shift in Italian art towards greater psychological depth and expressive power, aligning him with contemporaries like Giotto and Simone Martini, and literary figures such as Dante and Chaucer. The painting can be viewed at the National Gallery in London.
