The celebrations include exciting events throughout the year.
Somerset House is celebrating its 25th birthday – and everyone is invited. The arts and culture institution has unveiled an exciting line-up of events. FACT attended the announcement, which showcased the events calendar for 2025, which includes exhibitions, concerts and more.
Somerset House has served a variety of purposes, from a carpark to government offices. Today, it is an internationally acclaimed arts destination. For its 25th anniversary, it will host a range of events. The iconic courtyard will be taken over with commissions from Tai Shani and Wayne McGregor.
As part of the Summer Series, Somerset House Studios resident Akinola Davies Jr. will premiere his latest film on black culture in the United Kingdom. British photographer Jennie Baptiste shares her portraits of black youth culture, music, fashion, and urban life.
Soil: The World at Your Feet opens in the Embankment Galleries, and looks at the importance of soil. Virtual Beauty explores the impact of digital technologies on the ideas of beauty. Talent 25 sees the interdisciplinary artist, Yinka Ilori, at the helm of developing new talent. Step Inside 25 opens the entire building to the public. Plus, the venue will welcome a new riverside bar with chefs, artists and musicians.
Jonathan Reekie, Director of Somerset House, explained: “Somerset House’s 25th birthday programme has been carefully curated to showcase the artistic innovation and cross-disciplinary creativity that defines who we are today. Our intention is not only to celebrate our history but also to highlight our role as a platform for bold new ideas, fostering an inclusive creative community. It is remarkable to think how far we’ve come since the public first entered this beautiful building and courtyard 25 years ago – establishing Somerset House as a welcoming, leading international arts destination for all.”
Check in with FACT for the latest things to do in London.
GO: Visit www.somersethouse.org.uk for more information.