Magritte's mindboggling art takes center stage in a new London exhibition, 'This Is Still Not a Pipe: The Afterlife of Magritte,' opening at Gagosian Grosvenor Hill from 24 September to 12 December. The show explores the surrealist's enduring influence through remarkable loans of his paintings and contemporary responses by artists like Sarah Lucas and Matthew Barney.
Magritte's Enduring Influence
René Magritte, the Belgian surrealist known for his witty and thought-provoking imagery, continues to captivate audiences decades after his death. His work challenges perceptions of reality, often playing with language and representation. This exhibition delves into his 'afterlife'—how his ideas resonate in contemporary art.
The exhibition features a selection of Magritte's iconic works, including 'The Treachery of Images' (This Is Not a Pipe), alongside pieces by modern artists who have been inspired by his vision. Sarah Lucas, Matthew Barney, and others offer fresh interpretations, creating a dialogue between past and present.
Contemporary Responses
Sarah Lucas's sculptures often use everyday objects to explore themes of gender and identity, echoing Magritte's use of ordinary items in extraordinary ways. Matthew Barney's multimedia works challenge boundaries, much like Magritte did with his surreal compositions. Their inclusion highlights the breadth of Magritte's impact.
Other Notable Art Events This Week
Beyond the Magritte exhibition, London's art scene buzzes with other significant shows. Rachel Kneebone's porcelain sculptures at the Wallace Collection offer a contemporary twist on Rococo delights, while Gabriel Orozco's retrospective at White Cube Bermondsey showcases his famous Citroën DS transformation and latest works.

At the Eden Project in Cornwall, 'Extinction: Renewal, Art of a Living Planet' features artists like David Nash and Cristina Mittermeier responding to environmental peril. Amar Kanwar's films at Serpentine North Gallery explore the history of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
Comparison of Art Exhibitions
| Exhibition | Artist(s) | Location | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| This Is Still Not a Pipe: The Afterlife of Magritte | Magritte, Sarah Lucas, Matthew Barney, etc. | Gagosian Grosvenor Hill, London | 24 Sep – 12 Dec |
| Rachel Kneebone – Metamorphoses: Porcelain Sculpture | Rachel Kneebone | Wallace Collection, London | 23 Sep – 25 Apr |
| Extinction: Renewal, Art of a Living Planet | David Nash, Cristina Mittermeier, etc. | Eden Project, Bodelva | Until 19 Sep 2027 |
| Amar Kanwar | Amar Kanwar | Serpentine North Gallery, London | 23 Sep – 31 Jan |
| Gabriel Orozco: Chronotopic | Gabriel Orozco | White Cube Bermondsey, London | Until 8 Nov |
Key Takeaways
- Magritte's surrealist legacy is explored through contemporary art at Gagosian Grosvenor Hill.
- Other must-see exhibitions include Rachel Kneebone's porcelain sculptures and Gabriel Orozco's retrospective.
- Environmental art at the Eden Project highlights artists' responses to planetary peril.
- Amar Kanwar's films offer historical insights into South Asia.
- Luke Jerram's pollen installation provides a bee's eye view of the world.
FAQ
What is the Magritte exhibition about?
The exhibition explores Magritte's enduring influence on contemporary art, featuring his iconic works alongside responses by artists like Sarah Lucas and Matthew Barney.
Where and when is the Magritte exhibition?
It runs from 24 September to 12 December at Gagosian Grosvenor Hill, London.
What other art exhibitions are showing in London this week?
Notable shows include Rachel Kneebone at the Wallace Collection, Amar Kanwar at Serpentine North Gallery, and Gabriel Orozco at White Cube Bermondsey.