Entangled Pasts at the Royal Academy of Arts

Installation view of the ‘Navigation Charts’ exhibition at Spike Island, Bristol, 2017, showing. Lubaina Himid RA, Naming the Money, 2004. © Lubaina Himid. Image courtesy the artist, Hollybush Gardens, London and National Museums, Liverpool. © Spik. Island, Bristol. Photo: Stuart Whipps

Sir Joshua Reynolds PRA, Portrait of a Man, probably Francis Barber, c. 1770. Oil on canvas, 78.7 x 63.8 cm. The Menil Collection, Houston. Photo © Hickey-Robertson, Houston

This spring, delve into a captivating blend of past and present with renowned artists like J.M.W. Turner, Ellen Gallagher, Joshua Reynolds, Yinka Shonibare and more all in one impactful exhibition featuring over 100 artworks.

Discover the intergenerational connections as contemporary British, Caribbean, and South Asian diaspora artists—such as Sonia Boyce, Frank Bowling, and Mohini Chandra—share the spotlight with masters like Joshua Reynolds and J.M.W. Turner. Together, they delve into questions of power, representation, and history, creating a dialogue that transcends time.

Immerse yourself in a diverse array of exhibits, from Lubaina Himid's painted cut-out figures to Isaac Julien's immersive video installation. Marvel at Hew Locke's flotilla of model boats and Tavares Strachan's monumental courtyard sculpture.

Plus, powerful paintings, photographs, sculptures, drawings and prints by El Anatsui, Barbara Walker, Kerry James Marshall, Kara Walker, Shahzia Sikander, John Akomfrah and Betye Saar.

This exhibition confronts themes of slavery and racism, engaging with historical language and imagery to provoke thoughtful reflection and dialogue.

Book your journey through time today—tickets start from £22, with concessions available.

Children under 16 enter free, and Friends of the RA enjoy complimentary access. Young adults aged 16 to 25 can seize half-price tickets.