Autumn in Oxford is not only golden leaves, dark academia, and beautiful architecture – Michaelmas is also a season of creativity. The start of the new academic year simultaneously marks a vibrant start time for art exhibitions: from major retrospectives, to novel voices, to printmaking. Cherwell has curated a calendar of highlight events to look out for…
Pat Suet-Bik Hui & The Three Perfections
20 Sep 2025 to 28 Jun 2026, Ashmolean
三絕’ embodies the tradition of what’s considered in China to be the three highest art forms: poetry, calligraphy, and painting, known as the three perfections. The Ashmolean presents both early examples from the 17th century onwards, as well as the works of Hong Kong artist Hui and her contemporaries. The exhibition provides visitors the necessary space and context to view the dialogue between the disciplines. Seeing the way calligraphic strokes interact with paintings, and the reimagined and thematically diverse poetry, is a vibrant antidote to fall blues.
This Is What You Get
06 Aug 2025 to 11 Jan 2026, Ashmolean
If you’re seeking a subject a bit closer to home (home being Oxford) then head to the top floor, for a major exhibition exploring the collaboration between Stanley Donwood, and Thom Yorke of Radiohead. From initial album cover mock ups, to unpublished lyrics in their sketchbooks, this is an iconic tribute to the band, which formed in mid 80s Oxfordshire. It is the ideal chance to look back at the group’s music, but also the creative process behind their hits. Note: the exhibition requires advanced booking. Cherwell has already been to take a look at the display, so make sure to read our review before visiting yourself.
Suzanne Treister: Prophetic Dreaming
04 Oct 2025 to 12 Apr 2026, Modern Art Oxford
Nostalgic reminiscing aside, it’s also time to embrace modernity. Seeing the radical para-disciplinary artist Suzanne Treister’s major retrospective is the solution. From embracing new technology to exploring potential futures, the exhibition welcomes the artist’s time-travelling alter ego Rosalind Brodsky, Tarot decks, and machine intelligence. Her newest projects collaborate with local quantum physicists in the form of a walking tour across five city sites, allowing you to travel without leaving the comfort of Pembroke Street.
The Printmaker’s Eye
28 Nov 2025 to 03 Jan 2026, The North Wall
The open access Fine Art Print workshop known as the Oxford Printmakers Co-Operative (OPC) is exhibiting a new range of handmade prints, along with an insight into the process – relief prints, monotypes, and lithographs. The vibrant creativity is a welcome reprieve from a long term, and the perfect opportunity to find a Christmas gift.
Imagining Wolsey: The Invention of an English Cardinal
18 Jun 2025 to 22 Dec 2025, Christ Church Picture Gallery
Catch the last of Rome – A Cardinal’s Dream up to the 20th October, visualising the Roman drawings of Wolsey’s time, and then head to the 500th anniversary exhibition in honour of the Cardinal and founder of Christ Church. Tudor oil paintings, representations in Hilary Mantel’s iconic Wolf Hall: this is the exhibition to see if you want traditional portraits, canonical artists, and modern reinterpretations.
Oxford brings old masters and emerging talent together, from the Ashmolean’s awe inspiring halls, to the welcoming gleam of Oxford’s Modern Art haven. The months from autumn to winter pulse with creative energy, and Cherwell hopes you’ll find an event to spark your interest and inspire you. We eagerly await your thoughts, submissions and reviews.
Fancy reviewing one of these events? Contact us at [email protected] for more information.
