David Hockney's Groundbreaking Digital Art Exhibition Set for London Debut in 2026
London's art scene is poised for a significant cultural event this spring, as a landmark David Hockney exhibition prepares to grace the capital. Titled David Hockney: A Year in Normandie and Some Other Thoughts About Painting, this showcase will be hosted at the Serpentine Gallery from March 12 until August 23, 2026. It promises to stand out as one of the city's premier art attractions for the year, alongside other notable shows like a Frida Kahlo exhibition at the Tate and a Renoir retrospective at the National Gallery.
The Star Attraction: 'A Year in Normandie'
At the heart of the exhibition is Hockney's remarkable digital artwork, A Year in Normandie, which will be displayed in London for the very first time. Created by the 88-year-old artist during the pandemic, this 90-metre-long piece was produced entirely on an iPad and consists of 220 panels that vividly depict the changing seasons in his French garden. Inspired by historical artefacts such as the Bayeux Tapestry—which is also making a rare appearance in the UK this year—and traditional Chinese scrolls, the work represents a fusion of modern technology and timeless artistic themes.
Additional Highlights and Artistic Insights
The exhibition will also feature other notable works, including Moon Room, which reflects Hockney's enduring fascination with the lunar cycle, and selections from his Sunrise series, created during lockdown. Hockney has previously commented on the therapeutic nature of his iPad paintings, noting that they provided a respite from the global pandemic, with his drawings of winter trees blossoming into spring offering a sense of hope and continuity.
Bettina Korek, CEO of the Serpentine, and Hans Ulrich Obrist, its artistic director, have hailed the show as a landmark cultural moment, emphasising its importance in the contemporary art landscape. Unlike many high-profile exhibitions in London, this Hockney showcase will be completely free to the public, making it accessible to a wide audience and enhancing its appeal as a must-see event.
Why This Exhibition Matters
With its innovative use of digital media and its connection to broader cultural narratives, this exhibition underscores Hockney's ongoing relevance and creativity. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with art that bridges traditional techniques and modern innovation, set against the backdrop of one of London's most iconic galleries. As spring approaches, art enthusiasts and casual viewers alike can look forward to immersing themselves in a display that celebrates both the natural world and human resilience through Hockney's distinctive lens.
