WHAT? DEATH HOPE LIFE FEAR

WHERE? The Gilbert & George Centre, 5a Heneage Street, London E1 5LJ

WHEN? Now until February 2026, free but check opening times

WHY GO? For analytical minds. Pure vintage Gilbert & George for fans that love their irreverent take on social mores and life in general, portrayed as ever in their own quirky style. They are unique, they are controversial, they are East London’s most famous couple.
Their own personal gallery is a beautiful space to appreciate their work in solitude, situated just off one of London’s busiest streets, Brick Lane.
This exhibition brings together favourite works from the years 1984 to 1998, and themes portrayed strike a chord even today as they always have their pulse on what is happening in society, politics and culture, and represent issues in their own individual way.
The exhibition of 18 pictures includes the powerful series New Democratic Pictures (1992) where they startled everyone by appearing stark naked. Gilbert & George aficionados will remember how their work evolved from the Seventies through the Eighties into a representation of urban life, and how they introduced high-intensity colours that are now their signature.
Sit and ponder the moral dimensions of their landmark series Death, Hope, Life and Fear—the exhibition’s star attraction—and you will appreciate G&G’s symbolic meaning of life.

IN THE KNOW Hear the artists in conversation with writer and cultural commentator Michael Bracewell on film in the Centre’s intimate screen room alongside the gallery. Make a diary note: there will be a major Gilbert & George exhibition, 21st Century Pictures, at the Hayward Gallery in October 2025.