Art Exhibitions London

London Gallery Visit

For our first meetup, we'll be visiting 2 world famous galleries in London - The National Gallery and The National Portrait Gallery, an opportunity to see some incredible art with a friendly and creative group. Perhaps you've never been and always wanted to visit, maybe you're looking for inspiration for your own work, or perhaps you would like to meet some similar minded creative people - whatever your reason, it would be great to welcome you along. You can expect to see famous works by Monet, Van Gogh, Turner, Da Vinci, Constable, Rembrandt and many many more. Our visit only includes public viewing galleries and not private showings (these require additional tickets and maybe something I look at planning in the future). Our day will be split into two sections, in the morning we'll spend some time at The National Gallery and after lunch (at a nearby pub - The Garrick Arms) will visit the National Portrait Gallery. Our day is expected to end at around 4pm. While we'll meet up as a group and have some lunch together, once inside the galleries, you'll be free to wander and explore as you wish (you can of course stick with me but that's entirely up to you!). Meet up times & locations will be provided throughout the day for moving between our gallery locations. We'll meet outside the National Gallery entrance (Sainsbury Wing) just before 11am.

DAYTIME DYKES - TWIST Museum

FREE Exhibition - Portrait Award 2026

[Follow this link for more info, no tickets required](https://www.npg.org.uk/whatson/exhibitions/2026/hsf-kramer-portrait-award-2026) The Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award celebrates the very best in contemporary portraiture and is one of the most important platforms for portrait painters today. The artworks explore the variety of approaches to portraiture, from the classic to the contemporary, and encourage viewers to reflect on the creativity of the artists’ processes. Since its inception, the long-standing competition has attracted over 40,000 entries from more than 100 countries and has been seen by over 6 million people. Followed by social at the Cafe in the Crypt. *See comments below for updates*

Gallery & Sketching

Have you ever wanted to be that person who sketches in a gallery but you're too nervous to have people look over your shoulder? Yea, I've been there. It's intimidating. You feel like you're in the room naked. I've also been the person to sit and sketch and it's one of the most rewarding activities you can do. Just you, the artwork, and a bunch of people wishing they could do the same. Come and join me on the first Friday of the month and let's go to a gallery. These will be small groups and free of charge. We'll visit a new gallery each month, hopefully free ones and we'll do an hour or so of sketching, followed by a cuppa tea afterwards. Make sure you register so I can send you all the information a few days before the event.

Gallery & Sketching

Have you ever wanted to be that person who sketches in a gallery but you're too nervous to have people look over your shoulder? Yea, I've been there. It's intimidating. You feel like you're in the room naked. I've also been the person to sit and sketch and it's one of the most rewarding activities you can do. Just you, the artwork, and a bunch of people wishing they could do the same. Come and join me on the first Friday of the month and let's go to a gallery. These will be small groups and free of charge. We'll visit a new gallery each month, hopefully free ones and we'll do an hour or so of sketching, followed by a cuppa tea afterwards. Make sure you register so I can send you all the information a few days before the event.

Book Arts – Japanese Binding

### 8 Jun – Japanese Binding ### Course Overview * Explore the creative world of book arts through a series of focused evening workshops led by artist and printmaker Raquel Amat. * These sessions introduce a range of traditional and contemporary bookbinding techniques, showing how folding, stitching, structure, and materials come together to create unique handmade books. * Workshops take place in our North London studio, a short distance from Crouch End, Finsbury Park, Archway, and Highgate. * Suitable for beginners and creative practitioners of all backgrounds, these hands-on sessions encourage experimentation while building practical skills in bookbinding and paper-based art. * All basic materials are provided. **Time** 18.00 – 21.00 **Day** Monday **Tutor** **[Raquel Amat](https://art-class-london.co.uk/team/raquel-amat-parra/)** email: artclasslondon.printmaking@gmail.com mobile (WhatsApp): 07933084754 ### Booking Details * **Single workshop** (3-hour evening) – £65 Choose any individual technique. * **4-week block** (4 Mondays) – £250 Attend all four techniques at a discounted price. **Workshop Schedule** Block 1 27 Apr – Introduction to Book Arts 4 May – Japanese Binding (we are open on Bank holiday) 11 May – Concertina Binding 18 May – Coptic Binding Block 2 1 Jun – Introduction to Book Arts 8 Jun – Japanese Binding 15 Jun – Concertina Binding 22 Jun – Coptic Binding

FREE The Coming of Age Exhibition

[Follow this link for more info, no tickets needed](https://wellcomecollection.org/exhibitions/the-coming-of-age) ‘The Coming of Age’ explores experiences and perceptions of ageing, from adolescence to later life, and asks how societies can adapt for us all to age better. Across the globe, people are living longer. One in ten children in the UK are expected to live beyond the age of 100. But who gets to live longer and ‘age well’? This exhibition explores how experiences of age are shaped by our environment, culture and society. ‘The Coming of Age’ features more than 120 artworks and objects, including historical artefacts and works by contemporary artists. We will join the free intro tour at 14:15 if it's running, then visit by ourselves and you can also check the 'Being Human' permanent exhibition afterwards. When you finish, meet us at the cafe to socialise, if full we will go to a venue nearby. _See comments below for updates_

V&A Storage Stratford including Bowie exhibition

Join me for an exploration of the V&A storage in Stratford, including the Bowie exhibition. This is a very different and enjoyable museum experience where you can find artifacts displayed on shelves. You will find Victorian pieces of furniture next to Greek statues and rebuilds of 60s housing estate flats. It’s clearly designed to awaken your curiosity. We will stay at the exhibition for at least 1.5 hours, more if we want to, and then have a coffee in a very popular cafe near by afterwards. As always, please only sign up if you are intending to attend. The event is free but the usual £1.50 are a none refundable maintenance fee and meetup will also charge you £0.60. We would appreciated it if you cancelled no later than 2 days before the event and to please avoid cancelling on the day as that may get you removed from the group. We are meeting at Stratford station at 2pm and we will leave at that time. Once we are on the move you may not find us. Therefore, please be on time. It is a 30 minute slow walk from the station.

FREE Deutsche Bank Collection Art Tour [WAITLIST]

[Follow this link to register for free](https://dbwm.eventogy.com/c/moorfieldsarttours/welcome) _You will need to bring Photo ID_ Curator led tours of the Deutsche Bank Collection take place in their London headquarters. All tours include a talk about the history and philosophy of the collection, a discussion about their main areas of activity and a guided tour of the reception spaces and meeting rooms in 21 Moorfields. The collection supports **new** artistic talent and original ideas, concentrating on works on paper and photography by international **contemporary** artists. [More about the art collection](https://country.db.com/uk/art/the-uk-collection) Followed by social at a nearby venue. _See comments below for updates_ *Limited capacity event: no-shows will be waitlisted to prioritise committed members*

✏️ Free Sketch & Social

Join us for a relaxed sketching session from 6–8pm followed by a warm drink and a chat in a nearby café 😊 We usually meet at the V&A Museum or outside in a local park when the weather allows. Please check the location listed in the event details each week, as it may change depending on rain, sun, or gallery access. This is a calm, informal, free meetup — you're welcome to draw at your own pace, chat a little, or just get into the flow. It’s open to all levels, from total beginners to experienced artists. 🖍️ Art materials: In museums/galleries, we can only use dry, non-messy materials: pens, biros, colour pencils, markers, and fine liners (no paint, pastel, or charcoal). In parks or outdoor spaces, feel free to bring paints, pastels, or whatever you like! Bring your own sketchbook and materials, and come just as you are. We’d love to draw with you. ✨✏️☕

National Portrait Gallery - Free to Attend (Gallery + Pub)

National Portrait Gallery - Friday Lates offer creativity, inspiration, conversation in a social space where everyone is welcome. Enjoy socialising and discussion inspired by National Portrait Gallery's exhibitions, as we head to their Friday Late event to explore ideas about art, culture and society with a programme and "Drop in" Architectural drawing and design activities. Start your weekend in style by visiting world-class exhibitions and discovering the Collection. \*\*\* Schedule 7.15 : Group meets to visit displays. 9-11.30 : As a group, we have a few drinks and socialise at a nearby bar, after for drinks. Get to know London's Bohemians, culture seekers & artisans, & discuss the art on display. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Meeting 7.15 : Just inside the Gallery entrance Keep an eye on comments. My number will be displayed in the comments section below. 7.30 : If you are a few minutes late, don't worry, 7.15-7.30, we introduce ourselves and make acquaintances until the group assembles, so you can catch up with the group just inside the entrance until then. Remember to get a small orange dot sticker (handed out to everyone on arrival) so that you can keep track of everyone in the group throughout the evening. 7.30. We make acquaintances, and choose which rooms to head off to. \*\*\* Extra Info : Keep an eye on the comments throughout the evening. I will post our new location every time we change to a different wing of the gallery.

🎉 Friday Night Social at the National Gallery + After Party! 🎉

## 🎉 Friday Night Social at the National Gallery London 🎉 **Art. Connection. Adventure.** Join us for an unforgettable evening at one of the world’s most iconic art museums—the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square! With its late-night opening hours and legendary collection, this is your chance to explore masterpieces, meet new people, and enjoy a relaxed social vibe in the heart of London 🌆. ### 🖼️ About the National Gallery Founded in 1824, the National Gallery houses over 2,300 paintings spanning from the 13th to the early 20th century. From da Vinci’s ethereal brushwork to Van Gogh’s swirling sunflowers, this museum is a treasure trove of Western European art. And the best part? Admission is free! 🆓 Whether you're an art aficionado or just curious, the Gallery offers a welcoming space to wander, reflect, and connect. It’s a place where history meets inspiration—and tonight, it meets community. *** ## 🗓️ Event Schedule **6:45pm – Meet & Mingle** 📍 INSIDE the Sainsbury Wing entrance in the Foyer next to one of the thick giant columns. We’ll gather here for 30 minutes (6:45-7:15PM) to chat, introduce ourselves, and kick off the evening with our icebreaker: **“What kind of artwork are you drawn to?”** 🎭 No name tags—just good conversation and friendly faces. **7:15pm – Leave meeting point to Explore the Gallery** 🎨 We’ll head inside to explore these stunning rooms: * Room 32: Carracci, Caravaggio, Guercino * Room 34: Reynolds, Gainsborough, Turner, Constable * Room 45: Van Gogh 🌻 Feel free to roam in small groups—if you get separated, check these rooms to reconnect. **8:15pm – Reconvene AT ORIGINAL MEETING POINT** Then in your groups make your own way to the optional after-party: **8:30pm – Afterparty at ZEBRANOS IN SOHO🍸** 18 Greek St, London W1D 4DS Let the social vibes continue at a lively spot for drinks, music, and more mingling. Mention ZEN on entry. Bring ID Route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9FhUkidjkcCKJGmA8?g_st=ac *** ## 🎟️ Tickets & Entry This is a **free event**, but you’ll need a ticket to enter the Gallery. Grab yours from the [National Gallery website](https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/) before they run out! If tickets are unavailable, don’t worry—we’ll share a group ticket in the WhatsApp group and Meetup page 📲. *** ## 👗 Dress Code & Essentials * **Smart Casual** (no athletic track suits or sports trainers) * **Bring your ID** for the bar * A curious mind and a friendly spirit 💫 *** Ready to mix art with social magic? Let’s make Friday night a masterpiece 🖌️💃 ### \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. **Join our** **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** [https://x.com/CityZenLondon](https://x.com/CityZenLondon) 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.