National Gallery’s 200th Anniversary Year: A Spectacular Exhibition Programme for 2025
A Year of Artistic Excellence
The National Gallery in London, a must-visit destination for art lovers and city travelers, stands proudly in the heart of Trafalgar Square, offering both its world-renowned permanent collection and an extraordinary lineup of exhibitions for 2025.
Landmark Exhibitions
To commemorate its 200th anniversary, the Gallery is staging its first exhibition of Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings. ‘Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers’ marks the centenary of acquiring the artist’s famous Sunflowers and Van Gogh’s Chair. The exhibition will showcase the artist’s most ambitious canvases and works on paper, with particular focus on his time in Arles and Saint-Rémy in Southern France (1888-90).
Another highlight is the reunion of masterpieces by the greatest Italian artists of the 14th century, bringing together works that have been scattered worldwide for centuries. ‘Siena: The Rise of Painting, 1300‒1350’ will feature approximately one hundred works, demonstrating the evolution of European painting and the crucial role of Sienese artists in this development.
Cultural Exchange and Innovation
The Gallery will also present ‘José María Velasco: A View of Mexico,’ the first UK exhibition dedicated to Mexico’s most celebrated 19th-century painter. This exhibition will showcase Velasco’s sweeping landscapes that capture both the natural beauty of the Valley of Mexico and reflect the social changes of his era.
Community Engagement
The Gallery’s commitment to public engagement is evidenced by its travelling art studio programme, Art Road Trip, which is visiting 18 locations across the UK through May 2025. This initiative works with 24 local arts organisations to create community-led projects, specifically targeting people with limited access to creative opportunities.
Looking Forward
As the National Gallery progresses through 2025, it continues to both honor its rich history and engage visitors with exhibitions that offer deeper understanding of some of art history’s most celebrated works.
