Still Hope By Leead Shamir on display at Clarendon Fine Art. Credit: Kim Tran
By Kim Tran
Islington, the vibrant heart of North London, is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts. This eclectic borough is home to some of the most dynamic and innovative galleries in the city, each offering a unique blend of creativity and flair. From the industrial chic of Victoria Miro Gallery, where you can immerse yourself in the works of global contemporary artists like Yayoi Kusama and Grayson Perry, to the charming Estorick Collection, which showcases the best of modern Italian art, Islington is a haven for those who crave a dose of artistic inspiration.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your art journey, this London gem has something for everyone, making it the perfect destination for anyone ready to dive into the world of art and design.
Estorick Collection
The Estorick Collection stands out among London’s modern art galleries for its unique focus on modern Italian art and its intimate setting in a Georgian townhouse in Islington.
They specialise in early 20th-century Italian movements, particularly Futurism. This niche focus allows visitors to explore works by influential artists like Umberto Boccioni, Giacomo Balla, and Amedeo Modigliani in depth, offering viewers a dive into the art world of Italy.
Pieces from the permanent collection that is showcased at the Estorick Collection. Credit: Kim Tran
There are six rooms dedicated to showcasing Italian artistry focusing on the historical and political background of futurism. The collection continues to explore artists, movements, and ideas that deepen our understanding of Italian art and culture.
– The Estorick Collection
Breaking Lines: Futurism and the Origins of Experimental Poetry on display. Credit: Kim Tran
Unlike the other galleries, the Estorick Collection has a library, gift shop and cafe onsite. With a secluded garden and modern conservatory, anyone can enjoy a hot cup of coffee after viewing the displays. This is the perfect place to relax in for spring and summer!
- Free for members
- £5 tickets are available to students
- A quick walk from Highbury & Islington Station
Roha Gallery
Roha Gallery is an art space that is dedicated to showcasing artworks from upcoming Korean artists to the local community and providing a diverse range of art experiences.
They want to provide a platform for young talents especially for those from a Korean background and to share their vision. Allowing them to showcase works to the Islington community and build their global reputation.
Bubble Up by Dasol who featured in Roha Gallery’s last exhibition. Credit: Kim Tran
The art space features both solo and curated group exhibitions. They want to expand beyond just art displays, with future events that feature tattoo artists and renting the space to creators for residency.
The owner, Jinmo Ahn, wanted to promote more Korean artists and have people appreciate it more which prompted him to opening Roha Gallery.
He said: “I wanted to highlight Korean artistry, especially talent rising artists to London.”
The gallery is reservation only due to them wanting to provide a higher viewing experience and allow visitors to feel more personal with the artworks.
Pieces from Dasol’s solo exhibition. Credit: Kim Tran
- Free admission but needs to be booked through eventbrite
- Current exhibitions can be found here:
- Quick walk from Caledonia Road Station
James Freeman Gallery
Opened in 2003, the gallery explores contemporary art and showcase artists who blend modern trends with historical art references. Their focus is on artists whose work is both visually striking and skillfully crafted. They want visitors to be captivated by the displays and be engaged with them.
The gallery programme presents a mixture of solo exhibitions and curated group shows that explore this historical focus.
Sculptures created by Rebecca Stevenson with the main media being wax. Credit: Kim Tran
The gallery is dedicated to working with younger artists to give them an early platform to present and develop their practice. Their aim of discovering young talent has been the focus from the beginning and opening up their audience to the people of Islington.
The Triumph of Love collection:
Little Spirit by Rebecca Stevenson
- Free admission
- Rotating artists on display
- Right by Camden Passage, five minute walk from Angel Station
- Current exhibitions found here:
Clarendon Fine Art
Clarendon Fine Art focuses on creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for art lovers. They have over 80 galleries across the UK and the CEO Helen Swaby founded the business to make purchasing art an accessible for all.
They have lots of famous artists on display from Damien Hirst to Keith Harling, there is something for everyone. There are couches for people to sit and admire the works. They have carefully curated the space for the community who celebrates diversity and innovation.
Clarendon Fine Art believe in the joy of collecting and love nothing more than sharing that passion with others.
– Clarendon Fine Art
Although it may be for art collectors and buyers, the space is welcome to everyone! The team onsite are very friendly and are open to anyone viewing the displays.
Front view of Clarendon Fine Art at Upper Street. Credit: Kim Tran
Maria Pedrosa, 19, said: “I like the diversity and techniques in the collection. The environment was very cosy and the range of artists they have to offer were great. Everything seemed to connect with each other even though they were different.”
- Free to view for all
- Artworks are on sale if interested
- Specialist team on site for consultation or any questions
- Located on Upper Street, N1 2TU.
Victoria Miro
Victoria Miro Gallery is a renowned British contemporary art gallery in London, founded by Victoria Miro. Established in 1985 on Cork Street, the gallery relocated to expansive premises in Islington in 2000 and later expanded to a second location on St George Street in Mayfair. The gallery’s enduring mission is to champion exceptional and innovative artists while cultivating the next generation of talent from across the globe.
The gallery has featured some renowned artists such as Yayoi Kusama, her work is widely talked about especially her immersive installations such as the Infinity Mirrored Room and Death of Nerves.
Visitors were allowed 2 minutes in the Infinity Mirrored Room. Credit: Kim Tran
One of the gallery’s most distinctive features is its Waterside Garden, which overlooks the Wenlock BAsin canal and this outdoor setting is perfect for providing a tranquil area away from the busy streets of London.
The art space occupies a former furniture factory and there are three distinct exhibition areas, each offering a different atmosphere.
Pankti Gupta, 24, said: “I like the artists they feature and how accessible they make art. Bigger art institutions do the same but they do charge for it. I loved the Yayoi Kusama exhibition they had, the experience was fun and captivating.”
Victoria Miro is a great place to see famous contemporary art for free and immerse yourself in the unique spaces they have to offer.
I Pray for Love exhibition by Yayoi Kusama. Credit: Kim Tran
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