Top 10 London Art Exhibitions To See In October

By Londonist Last edited 114 months ago

Last Updated 21 October 2015

Top 10 London Art Exhibitions To See In October

Every month, we look ahead to major London openings and select the 10 must-see exhibitions.

Giacometti, Escher and Goya are some of the artists at the centre of blockbuster exhibitions opening in London this month. We've included them as part of our autumn roundup — and here are our other suggestions for October.

Wall hanging detail, Cotton applique, Gujarat, 20th century. Copyright V&A Museum London
The Fabric of India @ V&A (3 October-10 January)
As part of the V&A's India Festival, the exhibition will explore the multifaceted world of Indian handmade textiles through 200 objects on display, from the 3rd century to the modern day. Read the Londonist review. £14/£12, booking online suggested
John Hoyland @ Newport Street Gallery (8 October-3 January)
The much-discussed Damien Hirst gallery in Lambeth will officially open this month with a solo exhibition by abstract painter John Hoyland. Free admission
A few months ago we spoke to curator Jackie Keily about the first public opening — after 140 years since its creation — of the Metropolitan Police's museum. Don't miss the chance to ogle a collection of thousands of pieces of evidence relating to key cases since 1874. Read the Londonist review. £15/£12.50, booking online suggested
The exhibition celebrates 140 years since the London-based department store Liberty was founded by Arthur Lasenby Liberty. Explore how Liberty designs impacted on British fashion. Read the Londonist review. £9/£6, booking in advance suggested
Liotard was one of the most accomplished portraitists of the 18th century, famous for his passion for the Orient and his portraits of royal families across Europe. The RA dedicates the first UK retrospective to the artist. £10/concessions available, booking online suggested
Egypt: Faith after the Pharaos @ British Museum (27 October-7 February)
The British Museum reconstructs the history of Egypt, showing its Jewish, Christian and Muslim influences. With never-before-displayed objects, you'll explore the history of this ancient land, starting from 30 BC. £10/£8, booking online suggested
Lee Miller: A Woman's War @ Imperial War Museum (15 October-24 April)
The exhibition explores the life of women during the Second World War through the photographs of Lee Miller, considered one of the most relevant female photographers of the 20th century. Read the Londonist review. £10/£7, booking online suggested
The annual must-see exhibition dedicated to wildlife. Have a look at our five star review from last year. Read the Londonist review. £13.50/£6.75, booking online suggested
States of Mind: Ann Veronica Janssens @ Wellcome Collection (15 October-3 January)
Immerse yourself in this colourful interactive installation which is about perception and self-consciousness. Read the Londonist review. Free admission
West Africa: World, Symbol, Song @ British Library (16 October-16 February)
This exhibition explores the rich cultural panorama of West African countries. Exhibits include manuscripts, historic film and sound recordings, books and photographs that will give you an inside of this lesser-known world culture. £10/£8, booking online suggested
Frieze Art Fair takes place from 14-17 October. Details below

Don't forget about art fairs!

October means art fairs in London. Here are our suggestions:

Frieze Art Fair @ Regent's Park (14-17 October)
The most-awaited and discussed art fair of the year is back. Expect international artists and galleries, a sculpture park, plenty of talks and a sound project. Read the Londonist review. Tickets start from £16, depending on the day and timing, booking online suggested

The Other Art Fair @ Old Truman Brewery (15-18 October)
This alternative art fair returns to Brick Lane, celebrating its 10th edition. With 130 emerging artists on display, live performances, music and talks, this one is not to be missed. £10/£8. Londonist readers get 50% off tickets for The Other Art Fair using the code 'LONDONIST'.

Moniker Art Fair @ Old Truman Brewery (15-18 October)
Sharing the venue with The Other Art Fair, Moniker is all about contemporary art with roots in urban culture. £8/£6.40, booking online suggested

1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair @ Somerset House (15-18 October)
The fair focuses on the diversity and richness of African art panorama, showcasing 150 contemporary artists and 37 galleries. £15/£10, booking online suggested

To find more about what's on in London, visit Londonist's Museum & Galleries and Art & Photography pages.

Report a problem with this article