iThe Whitechapel has been discovering artists before anyone else since 1901 — it gave Picasso his first UK showing in 1939 and helped launch the careers of David Hockney, Lucian Freud, and Mark Rothko. The expanded gallery is a bright, generous space with a strong curatorial voice. Thursday evening lates are free and sociable. One of London's most important art venues, without the West End prices or crowds.

Film programme for the gallery's 125th anniversary with works by Ayo Akingbade, Holly Graham, Maz Murray and Gaby Sahhar, shown in Gallery 5.
A free participatory installation in Gallery 4, running alongside Cecilia Vicuña: Living Threads. Visitors contribute to a collective quipu — the Andean knotted-cord form central to Vicuña's practice.
A special exhibition and sale marking the gallery's 125th anniversary, featuring 24 international artists working primarily in painting, with proceeds supporting the gallery and artists.

The first major UK survey of the Chilean artist, poet and activist, spanning six decades of work that dissolves boundaries between art, poetry, performance and ritual. Includes a companion participatory installation, Foraging Quipu.

Work from the four shortlisted artists for the Film London Jarman Award, which recognises and supports UK artists working with moving image. The winner is announced 24 November 2026.
| Mon | Closed |
| Tue | 11:00–18:00 |
| Wed | 11:00–18:00 |
| Thu | 11:00–21:00 |
| Fri | 11:00–18:00 |
| SatToday | 11:00–18:00 |
| Sun | 11:00–18:00 |
Free
Free admission; some special exhibitions may be ticketed
Step-free access to all gallery spaces. Lifts to all floors. Accessible toilets on each level.
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