Harriet Cooper's guide highlights 16 free art exhibitions in London for spring 2026, including David Hockney's inaugural show at Serpentine North Gallery, a solo display by designer Simone Brewster at the Design Museum, and Somerset House's 'Holy Pop!' exploring modern idolatry. Other featured shows range from Paula Rego drawings to Gilbert & George works, all accessible without admission charges.
This roundup matters because it underscores London's role as a hub for accessible visual culture, demonstrating that major institutions like the Serpentine and Design Museum continue to offer high-quality contemporary art experiences free of charge. It also reflects broader trends in museum accessibility and the public's appetite for free cultural offerings in a major capital city.