Billed as “the artists’ gallery for everyone”, the Whitechapel Gallery was the artspace in the London East End, before Hoxton exploded.
The gallery opened in 1901 as one of the original publically-funded galleries for temporary art exhibitions in London, and in many respects it has continued to stay ahead of the game. Designed by Charles Harrison Townsend, the building is a wonderful example of British Art Nouveau, a bright spot on an otherwise pretty bleak main road.
Whitechapel Gallery History
The gallery says its “history is the future” and as such has premiered work by Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo and Jackson Pollock in its constantly evolving exhibition spaces. Picasso exhibited Guernica here in 1938.
If you wish to discover the art of the future, then this is a good place to start. Some exhibitions are free and others are charged, whichever you choose you are bound to ne stimulated. There is also a small shop and an excellent dining room and café.
What’s On at the Whitechapel Gallery
Discover what exhibitions and events are currently showing at the gallery here. Throughout 2021, the gallery will hold the exhibition Phantoms of Surrealism, which highlights the role that women played in the movement.
Whitechapel Gallery Opening Hours
Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 6pm; First Thursdays, 11am to 9pm.
Where is the Whitechapel Gallery?
77-82 Whitechapel High Street, London E1 7QX, UK.
How to Get to the Whitechapel Gallery
The gallery is located right next to Aldgate East tube station (District, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines). It is not too far a walk from Liverpool Street station (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines on the tube, as well as Overground and main line station).
Nearby Attractions
The gallery is in the heart of east London, just around the corner from Brick Lane, which is famed for its Indian cuisine, although much is actually Bangledeshi. Brick Lane has an excellent flea market on Sundays. Slightly further afield is Spitalfields which has a surfeit of excellent eateries and as you move up to Shoreditch, some intriguing bars and art galleries. This is an area where it pays to follow your nose.
