Barbican Art Gallery is a two-floor exhibition space inside the Barbican Centre on Silk Street in the City of London. Its changing programme covers contemporary art, photography, architecture, design and fashion, with themed shows that bring different artists and ideas together. Past exhibitions have ranged from textiles to post-war British art and the work of painter Noah Davis. The gallery sits within the Barbican’s distinctive Brutalist complex, so you can pair an exhibition with a look around the wider arts centre. Allow several hours if you want to explore beyond the gallery.
A changing programme in the Barbican Centre
Barbican Art Gallery is part of the Barbican Centre, a large arts venue in the City of London. The centre opened in 1982 and brings visual art together with music, theatre, film and other events. The gallery’s programme changes, with exhibitions covering subjects such as art, architecture, design, fashion and photography. Some exhibitions are free, while others require a ticket.
Shows often take a thematic approach, placing different artists or works in conversation. Past programmes have included exhibitions on textiles, post-war modernism and artists such as Carolee Schneemann, Dorothea Lange, Lee Krasner and Jean-Michel Basquiat. An exhibition devoted to Noah Davis brought together paintings of Black American life, including scenes of people dancing, sleeping and swimming. These examples give a sense of the range, but the current programme is the best guide to what will be on view during your trip.
Inside the gallery and beyond
The gallery occupies two floors, with exhibitions arranged around individual themes. The interpretation provides background on artists and the ideas behind the works, so there is context to follow as you move through the show. Depending on the exhibition, you may encounter work in areas such as textiles, photography or modern art. The programme can also include installations and group exhibitions that connect art with contemporary culture.
The Barbican’s architecture is part of the setting. The complex is a Brutalist landmark, built on an area damaged during the Blitz, and its layout can feel maze-like. The gallery is one part of a wider centre that also contains performance spaces, a cinema, a shop, places to eat and a conservatory. If you have time, exploring beyond the exhibition gives you a fuller sense of the venue. The centre’s public conservatory is another place to spend time after seeing the art.
Planning your visit
The gallery is at the Barbican Centre on Silk Street. For a more straightforward approach, enter from Frobisher Crescent. Lifts connect the gallery floors, and cloakrooms and toilets are nearby.
Check the exhibition page before travelling: the programme changes, and ticket prices depend on the show. Some events and exhibitions are free, while others are ticketed. Barbican members receive free entry to exhibitions. If you want to see more than one part of the centre, set aside several hours; for a gallery-only visit, the time will depend on the exhibition and how long you spend with it.
FAQ
Where is Barbican Art Gallery?
It is inside the Barbican Centre at Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS. The Frobisher Crescent entrance provides easier access to the gallery.
Do you need a ticket for Barbican Art Gallery?
Some exhibitions are free and others are ticketed. Prices depend on the exhibition, and Barbican members can enter exhibitions free.
How long should you spend at Barbican Art Gallery?
Allow several hours if you plan to explore the wider Barbican Centre as well as the gallery. The time needed for the exhibition itself depends on the show.
What kind of exhibitions are at Barbican Art Gallery?
The programme includes contemporary art, photography, architecture, design and fashion. Past exhibitions have covered textiles, post-war modernism and individual artists.
