Black Venus: Reclaiming the past (and present) of Black women in art 

In the 1810s an enslaved African woman named Saartjie Baartman was toured and exhibited as the “Hottentot Venus” around Europe for visitors to scrutinise her figure and exoticism for the price of two shillings. This story inspired curator Aindrea Emelife to rewrite the history of Black women in art by showcasing the work of 18 women and non-binary artists, including Carrie Mae Weems, Renee Cox, Sonia Boyce, Zanele Muholi, Ming Smith and Lorna Simpson, alongside emerging artists. The artists illustrated and embodied a plurality of Black femininity and beauty through multiple techniques and formats. “Black Venus” is at Somerset House, London, until 24 September.  Here are our top exhibitions in London for the rest of the Summer: 

‍

‍

Diva at the Victoria & Albert Museum.

DIVA will celebrate the power and creativity of iconic performers, exploring and redefining the role of 'diva' and how this has been subverted or embraced over time across opera, stage, popular music, and film.

‍

‍

Wildlife Photographer of the Year at the Natural History Museum.

Each year, the winning images from the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition form a stunning exhibition that always delights and inspires. The acclaimed exhibition premieres at the Natural History Museum each year before touring in the UK and across the world.

‍

Portraits of Dogs: From Gainsborough to Hockney at the Wallace Collection.

The exhibition explores our devotion to four-legged friends across the centuries. Through carefully selected paintings, sculptures, drawings, works of art and even taxidermy, the exhibition highlights the unique bond between humans and their canine companions.

‍

‍

‍

BBC Earth Experience at The Dalkin Centre.

BBC Earth Experience - a ground-breaking new attraction offering visitors the chance to experience the extraordinary diversity of our seven unique continents, on the most epic scale featuring bespoke narration from David Attenborough.