Absolutely’s guide to what’s on in February, here’s all the best in art and culture London has to offer this month.
(Header image: John Sturrock)
LIGHT FESTIVAL
Battersea Power Station
Until 5th March
Returning for its third year, the free Light Festival at Battersea Power Station will be brightening up the dark winter evenings with the largest collection of installations to date. Eight spectacular pieces of artwork, curated in partnership with Light Art Collection, will be on display both outdoors and inside the iconic Grade II* listed Power Station.
NT LIVE: THE CRUCIBLE
Picturehouse Central
7th February
Raised to be seen but not heard, a group of young women in Salem suddenly find their words have an almighty power. As a climate of fear, vendetta and accusation spreads through the community, no one is safe from trial.
ATTA KWAMI: MARIA LASSNIG PRIZE MURAL
Serpentine Gallery
Until September 2023
A public art mural by the late painter, printmaker, independent art historian, and curator Atta Kwami (1956-2021). The mural is painted on wood – the surface Kwami used for outdoor constructions – by artist Pamela Clarkson, Kwami’s widow, and designer Andy Philpott, his friend and collaborator.
DANCE ME – MUSIC BY LEONARD COHEN
Sadlers Wells
7th – 14th February
Dance Me is inspired by the rich and profound work of poet, artist and songwriter, Leonard Cohen. Three contemporary dance choreographers were entrusted with putting movement to Cohen’s legendary songs. Scenic, visual, musical, dramaturgical, and choreographic elements pay tribute to him.
DESIRE FAIR
Chelsea Old Town Hall
10th – 12th March
This stunning mixed media jewellery and silversmithing event enables visitors to purchase direct from contemporary designer makers selected from the best in the UK. Desire offers visitors a choice of individual jewellers and contemporary silversmiths who have been selected for their superb and innovative craftsmanship and have a genuine passion for the work they create.
ALICE NEELE: HOT OFF THE GRIDDLE
Barbican Art Gallery
16th February – 21st May
The UK’s largest exhibition to date of the work of American artist Alice Neel (1900–1984). Neel painted figuratively during a period in which it was deeply unfashionable to do so. She persisted with her distinctive, expressionistic style, even though it meant that for most of her life she lacked critical recognition.
