Shows at Modern

Gwen John: Strange Beauties

Gwen John: Strange Beauties is the first major retrospective in over 40 years dedicated to one of Wales’ most accomplished artists. Born in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire in 1876, Gwen John studied at the Slade School of Art in London, becoming one of the first generation of women to receive a formal art education, before settling in Paris. Marking 150 years since her birth, Strange Beauties offers a fresh perspective on John’s work and artistic legacy. Rarely seen drawings and watercolours on display give an insight into her determined artistic vision.

Modern • 3 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Resistance

Curated by acclaimed artist and filmmaker Steve McQueen, Resistance explores how acts of resistance have shaped life in the UK, and the powerful role of photography in documenting and driving change. This exhibition brings together works by renowned photographers such as Vanley Burke, John Deakin, Fay Godwin, Edith Tudor-Hart, David Hurn, Tish Murtha, Humphrey Spender and Paul Trevor, alongside lesser-known photographers who documented these powerful stories. Drawing photographs from various archives, collections and image libraries, Resistance deliberately focuses on moments captured before digital cameras became commonplace.

Modern • 28 Jul 2025 - 25 Aug 2025

Women in Revolt! Art and Activism in the UK 1970–1990

Be inspired by stories of collaboration, creativity and rebellion. This major survey of feminist art celebrates the women who challenged and changed the face of British culture. Discover the powerful and often provocative work of over 100 artists and collectives forged against the backdrop of seismic social, economic and political change over two decades. Women in Revolt! explores themes and issues like the Women’s Liberation Movement, the peace movement, the visibility of Black and South Asian women artists, Section 28 and the AIDS pandemic through a whole range of media.

Modern • 29 Jul 2024 - 26 Aug 2024