European Art Exhibitions of 2026: A Celebration of Iconic Works

In 2026, the National Gallery in London will host a significant exhibition featuring Jan van Eyck's renowned painting, “The Arnolfini Portrait,” alongside eight other surviving works by the artist. This marks the first occasion that half of van Eyck's extant portraits will be displayed together, offering a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts to appreciate the precision and innovative techniques that define his contributions to the genre of portraiture.

New York Times

Jan van Eyck, a pivotal figure in the development of oil painting during the Northern Renaissance, is celebrated for his meticulous attention to detail and the use of luminous colors. His works represent a transformative moment in art history, as portraitists began to focus on everyday individuals rather than solely on religious or aristocratic subjects. This exhibition not only highlights van Eyck's artistic achievements but also reflects a broader shift in the portrayal of humanity in art.

New York Times

In addition to the van Eyck exhibition, the National Gallery of Iceland will present a retrospective of the work of Icelandic artist Björk during the 2026 Reykjavik Arts Festival. This exhibition aims to provide a comprehensive view of Björk's multidisciplinary practice, showcasing elements from her music videos, stage costumes, and other artistic endeavors. This follows her previous retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, which focused on the behind-the-scenes aspects of her work.

New York Times

The simultaneous exhibitions of van Eyck's portraits and Björk's oeuvre underscore the importance of both historical and contemporary art in shaping cultural narratives. By bringing together these iconic figures from different eras, the exhibitions invite audiences to explore the evolution of artistic expression and the ongoing dialogue between past and present.

New York Times

The National Gallery in London has expressed excitement about the opportunity to showcase van Eyck's works, emphasizing the rarity of such a collection being displayed together. Similarly, the National Gallery of Iceland has highlighted the significance of Björk's contributions to the arts, noting that her exhibition will offer a broader understanding of her impact on contemporary culture.

New York Times

• “If the MoMA show aimed to go behind the scenes of her work — props from music videos, stage costumes, objects and images related to albums,that swan dress— this exhibition promises a vaster view of Björk’s expanding multidisciplinary practice.” — National Gallery of Iceland

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• “For the first time, these nine surviving portraits (half of van Eyck’s extant works worldwide) can be seen together.” — National Gallery, London

New York Times

As the exhibitions approach, both galleries are preparing for increased visitor engagement, with educational programs and guided tours planned to enhance the experience for attendees. The exhibitions are expected to draw significant interest from both local and international audiences, further solidifying the role of these institutions in the global art landscape.

New York Times