Warwick Arts Centre will co-host the opening of British Art Show 10, the UK’s most important touring exhibition of contemporary art. The exhibition will open in Coventry in September 2026 before touring to Swansea, Bristol, Sheffield and Newcastle Gateshead.
Organised by Hayward Gallery Touring, this will be the most extensive British Art Show to date, taking place across five UK cities and multiple venues. Coventry’s presentation will be held across Mead Gallery at Warwick Arts Centre, the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, and Coventry University.
The British Art Show has been showcasing the best in contemporary British art since 1979. Held every five years, it has introduced millions to artists who go on to shape the national and international art scene. Past editions have featured David Hockney, Tracey Emin, Anish Kapoor, and Sonia Boyce.
Sarah Shalgosky, Principal Curator at the University of Warwick, said: “We’re delighted that Mead Gallery at Warwick Arts Centre will play such a central role in launching British Art Show 10. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect audiences in Coventry and the wider region with the most exciting contemporary art being made in the UK today. This is a moment of national significance – and we’re thrilled that it begins here at Warwick.”
This year’s curator, Ekow Eshun, is one of the UK’s most influential cultural figures. His past exhibitions include In the Black Fantastic at Hayward Gallery and The Time is Always Now at the National Portrait Gallery. For British Art Show 10, he will bring together artists whose work speaks to the social, political and cultural issues shaping Britain today.
Warwick Arts Centre’s involvement continues its strong track record of bringing major national exhibitions to Coventry and ensuring that contemporary art remains accessible and relevant to local communities.
Mark Ball, Artistic Director of the Southbank Centre, said: “The British Art Show is a quintessential example of the Southbank Centre’s founding spirit – presenting bold, innovative artists who speak to our time. As we approach our 75th anniversary, we’re excited to take the show to more places than ever, collaborating with creative spaces across the UK and opening up contemporary art to as many people as possible.”
Further details about the artists and exhibition themes will be announced in 2026.
