London Exhibitions Not to Miss This October

From Frieze masterpieces to free drinks, add these shows to your calendar

After experiencing the last days of summer weather, it’s time to plan for what this fall has to offer. There are an estimated 1,500 permanent exhibitions going on in London this year so we’ve made your life easier with a low-down of what to add to the top of your list during one of the busiest times in the art world.

While the art on show can go up to six figures, these exhibitions are primarily free so anyone can dip their toes into the creative scene. What’s unique with this season is the big art fairs happening around the capital; let's explore…

Frieze London, Masters & Sculpture

12 - 16 October

Since it started in 2003, Frieze London has become one of Europe’s most influential contemporary art fairs. At Frieze Masters and Frieze Sculpture you can expect rare pieces, big names, lots of VIPs, over 280 galleries and 60,000 people that descend on Regents Park over the five-day fair. With early bird tickets now sold out, if you’re planning to attend you’ll need to get yourself a limited full-price ticket for £155.

BRUSHWRK Exhibition Party

20 October

If the price of Frieze is a bit hefty or you’re looking for somewhere to grab a drink, mingle with creatives and see incredible art after a long show day, why not head to the BRUSHWRK Exhibition Party. Held in East London, the affordable art marketplace app will come to life for the night to showcase the work of emerging artists exploring bodies and sexuality. Add yourself to the guestlist here to join a night of free drinks, great music and great vibes.

The Affordable Art Fair

23 October

This year the Affordable Art Fair returns to Battersea Park in London with three events hosting pieces from galleries across the UK capital, Hong Kong, New York and Barcelona. With artwork priced between £100 to £6,000, it’s a strong contestant and spin-off from the big art fairs where art is sold for high prices – albeit the affordable art fair can get pricey but not astronomically so.

1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair

13-16 October

1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair returns to Somerset House for four days, hosting 50 international exhibitors across 21 countries. With prices ranging from £8,000 to £35,000, sales tend to come hot and fast, with collectors flocking around to see what’s new in the contemporary African art scene.

Amy Sherald, Hauser & Wirth

12 October - 23 December

Amy Sherald came to public attention when she was selected to paint Michelle Obama's official portrait (take a closer look). This exhibition 'The World We Make' – opening during art fair week – will showcase more of her bold, super-colourful portraits at Hauser & Wirth London, being the artist’s first solo show in Europe! There will also be a private view on Tues 11 October if you want to get in early to see the show.

Would rather browse art online? Discover unique artworks at BRUSHWRK