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article news calendar_today Friday, February 20, 2026

London National Gallery’s deficit bombshell, Simon Schama on birds and art, Vilhelm Hammershøi—podcast

The National Gallery in London has announced unexpected and significant budget cuts, including potential staff reductions, due to a projected deficit of £8.2 million for the upcoming year. This financial crisis comes as a surprise following the recent completion of a major building project and the announcement of another ambitious expansion planned for the 2030s.

Beyond the fiscal news, the art world sees major exhibition openings including a bird-themed show at the Mauritshuis curated by historian Simon Schama and the iconic painting 'The Goldfinch'. Additionally, a significant retrospective of Danish painter Vilhelm Hammershøi has launched at the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid, highlighting the enduring appeal of his quiet, atmospheric interiors.