If you’re looking for modern art in London that’s immersive, thought-provoking and a little different from the city’s traditional galleries, I’d definitely recommend keeping the Hayward Gallery on your list.
During my visit, I explored two contemporary exhibitions, Yin Xiuzhen: Heart to Heart and Chiharu Shiota. Although these exhibitions have now ended (they ran from 17 February to 3 May), they perfectly showcase the type of ambitious and interactive exhibitions the Hayward Gallery is known for.
Having previously visited the Yoshitomo Nara exhibition, I was excited to return and see how the gallery had been transformed. What I enjoy most about the Hayward Gallery is that every exhibition feels completely different, so you never quite know what to expect.
One thing that made this visit even better was that admission included both exhibitions, making it feel like two gallery experiences in one.
Why Visit the Hayward Gallery?
One of the reasons I enjoy visiting the Hayward Gallery is that it doesn’t feel like a traditional art museum. Rather than simply walking past paintings on a wall, many exhibitions encourage you to move through the space, interact with installations and experience the artwork from different perspectives.
If you’re new to contemporary art, don’t worry about trying to understand every piece. I found it much more enjoyable to experience each installation first and then read about the artist’s inspiration afterwards. It felt much more personal.
I also appreciated that the gallery never felt overwhelming. Even with two exhibitions to explore, around two hours was enough to enjoy everything at a relaxed pace.
Yin Xiuzhen: Finding Meaning in Everyday Objects
The first exhibition, Yin Xiuzhen: Heart to Heart, quickly became my favourite.
Using everyday objects such as clothing, fabric and recycled materials, Yin Xiuzhen transforms ordinary belongings into artworks that explore memory, identity and personal history.
One installation featuring a collection of suitcases immediately caught my attention. Each suitcase contained clothes from different moments in the artist’s life, turning familiar objects into something deeply meaningful. It was a simple idea, yet incredibly effective, reminding me how everyday possessions often hold our strongest memories.
The highlight of the exhibition was being able to step inside one of the installations. Sitting and even lying down inside the artwork completely changed how I experienced it. Surrounded by layers of deep red fabric, I felt calm, enclosed and unexpectedly reflective. It almost reminded me of being inside a womb, creating one of the most memorable moments of the entire visit.
Chiharu Shiota: Threads of Life and Connection
The second exhibition by Chiharu Shiota created a completely different atmosphere.
Her large-scale installations made from intricate webs of thread immediately filled the gallery space, creating artwork that was impossible to ignore.
The installation featuring hundreds of 
suspended keys was the piece that stayed with me most. Standing beneath it made me think about the different stages of life, the memories we collect and the opportunities that shape our journey.
suspended keys was the piece that stayed with me most. Standing beneath it made me think about the different stages of life, the memories we collect and the opportunities that shape our journey.Another installation encouraged visitors to walk through handwritten letters exploring different kinds of relationships. Rather than simply looking at the artwork, I found myself slowing down and taking time to read each letter, making the experience feel much more personal.
Although I connected more with Yin Xiuzhen’s work, I appreciated how differently both artists approached similar themes. Yin focused on familiar everyday objects, while Shiota used large-scale installations to encourage reflection on life and human connection.
What to Expect During Your Visit
If you’re considering visiting the Hayward Gallery, here’s what I’d expect based on my experience:
- Allow around two hours to enjoy the exhibitions without rushing.
- Many exhibitions include immersive or interactive installations, so expect to spend time walking through the artwork rather than simply viewing it.
- The gallery suits visitors who enjoy contemporary art, photography and creative experiences.
- Don’t worry if you don’t immediately understand every piece. Contemporary art is often open to personal interpretation, and that’s part of what makes visiting enjoyable.
Is the Hayward Gallery Worth Visiting?
Absolutely.
What I enjoy most about the Hayward Gallery is that every exhibition feels unique. Rather than offering the same style of artwork each season, the gallery regularly showcases internationally recognised artists who transform the space in completely different ways.
If you enjoy immersive experiences that encourage reflection and creativity, I’d highly recommend checking what’s currently on.
If you prefer classical paintings or traditional galleries, you may find some exhibitions more conceptual. However, that’s also part of the gallery’s appeal; it challenges you to see art in different ways.
Planning Your Visit
📍 Location: Hayward Gallery, Southbank Centre, London
🚇 Nearest Underground Station: Waterloo
⏱ Allow: Around 2 hours
🎟 Tickets: I recommend booking in advance, particularly for popular exhibitions and weekends.
One of the best things about visiting the Hayward Gallery is its location. After exploring the exhibitions, it’s easy to continue your day with a walk along the South Bank, visit Borough Market, enjoy lunch by the river or explore some of London’s other cultural attractions nearby.
Final Thoughts
Although these exhibitions have now finished, they reminded me why I keep returning to the Hayward Gallery. Every visit offers something completely different, whether it’s stepping inside immersive installations or discovering artists whose work makes you pause and reflect.
If you’re planning a cultural day out in London, I’d definitely recommend keeping an eye on the Hayward Gallery’s upcoming exhibitions. Even if you don’t usually visit contemporary art galleries, this is one of those places that might just change your mind.
