Big Hair and Pre-Raphaelites: Must-See Art Exhibitions This Week 2026

This week's art scene offers a rich tapestry of exhibitions, from a deep dive into pre-Raphaelite art and politics to a celebration of Orkney's creative collective. Whether you're drawn to big hair and Victorian ideals or contemporary meditations on darkness, there's something to spark your curiosity.

Pre-Raphaelites and Politics at the Fitzwilliam

If you think you've seen enough of William Morris and the pre-Raphaelites, think again. A Call to Art at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge takes a fresh look at late Victorian art and politics, exploring how artists responded to the social issues of their time. Running until 3 May, this exhibition is a must for anyone interested in the intersection of creativity and activism.

The pre-Raphaelites are known for their romanticized imagery and meticulous detail, but their work also carried political undertones. This show promises to reveal new layers, connecting the aesthetic movement to broader societal debates.

Night Visions in Derry

In Derry, The Night Journal at the CCA brings together artists like Aisling O’Beirn and Wilhelmina Peace to ponder the mysteries of darkness. What does it mean when the world goes dark? This exhibition, running until 19 December, offers a haunting exploration perfect for the Halloween season.

Through various media, the artists invite viewers to confront their fears and fascinations with the night. It's a thought-provoking counterpoint to the more traditional fare on offer elsewhere.

Orkney's Móti Collective Celebrates a Decade

In Stromness, the Pier Arts Centre hosts the Móti Collective, a group of 17 artists and designers working in Orkney. Celebrating their 10th anniversary, the exhibition showcases the vibrant creative community of the islands. The gallery's location on Stromness harbour adds an evocative backdrop to the diverse works on display.

This collective represents the strength of regional art scenes, proving that innovation isn't confined to major cities. The show runs until 24 December, so there's ample time to plan a visit.

Rauschenberg and Barns-Graham: Modernist Masters

At Tate Modern, a special display from the Artist Rooms collection focuses on Robert Rauschenberg's later work. Was it a falling off, or seriously underrated? This exhibition invites viewers to reassess the magician of found objects.

Meanwhile, Tate St Ives presents Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, whose abstracted Cornish landscapes are both bony and ethereal. Running until 3 May, this show highlights a modernist painter whose work deserves wider recognition.

Image of the Week: Lotus L Kang at Venice Biennale

At the Venice Biennale, Lotus L Kang arranged 49 bottles of spirits in front of film reels of tidal mudflats and visualisations of birdsong. This installation reflects Buddhist themes and the interconnectedness of nature and human rituals. It's a striking example of how contemporary art can bridge spiritual and environmental concerns.

Key Takeaways for Art Lovers

• A Call to Art at the Fitzwilliam Museum offers a political lens on the pre-Raphaelites.
• The Night Journal in Derry explores the symbolism of darkness.
• Móti Collective in Orkney showcases 17 artists in a 10th-anniversary show.
• Robert Rauschenberg at Tate Modern invites a reevaluation of his later work.
• Wilhelmina Barns-Graham at Tate St Ives highlights her abstract landscapes.

Exhibition Comparison

FAQ

For those intrigued by the intersection of art and design, the legacy of Hermione Carline's obituary offers a fascinating glimpse into a life dedicated to textile design and the arts. Her work, like that of the pre-Raphaelites, bridged beauty and craftsmanship.

If you're planning a trip to see these exhibitions, consider the relaxed arty break in Eindhoven, a Dutch design city that perfectly complements a cultural getaway. Its creative vibe might just inspire your next artistic pilgrimage.

And for a deeper dive into how art shapes our world, the Ca' Granda exhibition at Milan Design Week shows how historic spaces can be transformed by contemporary art. It's a reminder that art is always in dialogue with its surroundings.

Gaming enthusiasts might also appreciate the Designers Republic's work for Aphex Twin and gaming, which demonstrates how graphic art can influence interactive media. The collective's iconic style has left an indelible mark on visual culture.

Finally, the 40 years of Designers Republic celebrates their enduring influence, proving that great design transcends boundaries. Whether you're into music, art, or gaming, their story is one of innovation and bold creativity.