David Hockney’s Normandy Vision Comes to London’s Serpentine Gallery
One of the most influential artists of our time, David Hockney, is presenting his monumental 90-meter-long frieze, “A Year in Normandie,” at the Serpentine Gallery in London. The exhibition, running from March 12th to August 23rd, 2026, marks the first time this celebrated work will be displayed in the UK. Tickets for March–May are currently available, with June–August dates to be released soon. Serpentine Gallery.
Inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry
“A Year in Normandie” draws inspiration from the Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the changing seasons at Hockney’s former studio in Normandy. The artist, who has lived in Normandy since 2019, created the work during the pandemic, utilizing his iPad to capture the essence of each scene. Sotheby’s. Like the Impressionists, Hockney worked quickly and intuitively, skillfully capturing changes in light, and weather.
Beyond the Frieze: Still Lifes and Portraits
The exhibition extends beyond the expansive frieze, featuring five still lifes and five portraits of Hockney’s loved ones and carers. These paintings are characterized by their frontal composition and the recurring motif of a checkered tablecloth, blending elements of abstract and figurative art. Diena.lv.
A Celebration of Seeing and the Everyday
Hockney invites viewers to “slow down and notice the extraordinary within the everyday,” affirming his belief that simple beauty is worth celebrating. He states, “I have always believed that art should bring deep pleasure. There is immense suffering around us everywhere and always, and my duty as an artist is to overcome and soften the hopelessness. A new vision means new feelings. I believe that painting can change the world.” Diena.lv.
Digital Innovation and a Garden Mural
The exhibition incorporates digital work created on Hockney’s iPad, alongside new still lifes and portraits. A large-scale printed mural, highlighting a scene from the spring cycle of “A Year in Normandie,” will also be displayed in the Serpentine Gallery garden, echoing the work’s creation in Hockney’s Normandy garden. Sotheby’s.
Hockney’s Enduring Legacy
At 88 years old, David Hockney continues to explore the language of painting with remarkable ingenuity. Hans Ulrich Obrist, artistic director of the Serpentine Gallery, notes that the exhibition embodies a deeply personal reflection on the passage of time and the changing seasons. Serpentine Gallery. Hockney’s seven-decade career has been marked by a commitment to celebrating the world around him, epitomized by his signature phrase, “Love Life.”
Visitor Information
The David Hockney exhibition at Serpentine North Gallery is free to visit and will be on view until August 23, 2026. Although pre-booked tickets are recommended, walk-ups are welcome, though a queue of approximately 10 minutes may be expected. Serpentine Gallery.