David Shrigley London Exhibition Brings Humor to Old Masters 2026

David Shrigley's London exhibition at Dulwich Picture Gallery brings his signature wit to 17th-century Dutch and Flemish masterpieces, offering a fresh perspective on historic art. The contemporary artist's new works will hang alongside paintings by Rembrandt, Jan Steen, and other old masters, creating a dialogue that spans nearly 400 years.

David Shrigley's Unique Artistic Dialogue with Old Masters

Shrigley, a Turner Prize nominee known for his playful line drawings and deadpan humor, has created a series of brand-new commissions for this exhibition. These works respond directly to the gallery's collection, exploring the comedic side of everyday life that both Shrigley and the old masters captured so effectively.

The exhibition, opening next year, marks Shrigley's first solo show in a UK public museum since his 2012 Hayward Gallery retrospective. It promises to challenge the notion that great art must always be serious, as Shrigley's irreverent style meets the refined techniques of Dutch and Flemish painting.

Key Works and Themes in the Exhibition

Visitors will see Shrigley's distinctive drawings and sculptures placed in conversation with masterpieces by Adriaen Brouwer, David Teniers the Younger, and Pieter Brueghel the Younger. The juxtaposition highlights how humor has been a constant thread in art, from the bawdy scenes of the 17th century to Shrigley's modern observations.

Helen Hillyard, head of collection and exhibitions at Dulwich Picture Gallery, said: "Shrigley – like our historic painters – has an instinct for finding the funny side of everyday life. He is the perfect artist to bring back playfulness to the old masters."

Comparing Shrigley's Style with Dutch and Flemish Masters

Why This Exhibition Matters

This exhibition is not just a display of art; it's a commentary on the enduring power of humor in visual culture. By pairing contemporary works with historical ones, Dulwich Picture Gallery invites audiences to see old masters with fresh eyes.

• First solo museum exhibition in the UK for Shrigley in over a decade
• Features never-before-seen commissions created specifically for the show
• Includes loans from major UK institutions alongside the gallery's own collection
• Explores how humor has been used across centuries to observe human behavior

Plan Your Visit to the Exhibition

The exhibition will run at Dulwich Picture Gallery in London, with exact dates to be announced. Tickets will be available online, and the gallery offers guided tours and educational programs for all ages.

Whether you're a fan of contemporary art or a lover of old masters, this show promises a unique and entertaining experience. Don't miss the chance to see Shrigley's playful genius in a historic setting.

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