Located in the former Bankside Power Station, it houses an impressive collection of British and international artworks from 1900 to the present day. The Tate Modern offers free entry to its main collection and hosts various temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Architecture
When entering the museum via the massive Turbine Hall of the Tate Modern, you’ll be immediately struck by its sheer size and industrial charm. The ceiling is some 30 meters above the floor, and visitors look like tiny pieces of art when you later take a peak downward from one of the bridges connecting the building sections. This isn’t your typical stuffy museum - it’s a place where art and architecture come together in a really exciting way.
Collection
The Tate Modern’s collection is huge and diverse. There are famous works by artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney, alongside pieces by newer artists. The rooms mix different styles and time periods, and you’ll most likely discover something new and unexpected. Like in many of museums in London, the entry to the main collection is free. This means you can pop in for a quick visit or spend a whole day exploring without breaking the bank. There is a charge for some special exhibitions, but the price is usually not very high. You should buy tickets well in advance for some popular exhibitions, though.
The museum is spread over several floors, each with its own theme. There are sections for many types of art, for example, on pop art and abstract expressionism. The curators do a great job of explaining the context and significance of the artworks, helping to appreciate them more.
The Tate Modern isn’t just about looking at art - there are often performances, workshops, and talks happening too that can take the experience to another level. For example, one of the activities was building paper boats that were then set sailing on the Turbine Hall floor.
Tips for Visiting
The top floor of the new Blavatnik Building (built in 2016) has a viewing platform, which offers an amazing 360-degree views of the London skyline, including St. Paul’s Cathedral and the River Thames. It’s a perfect spot for photos or just taking in the city.
When you need a break, there’s a café and restaurant with great views of the river. The gift shop is also worth a look and you can pick up some unique souvenirs there.
Location
The museum is located right next to the Thames with Millennium Bridge providing a connection to St Paul’s Cathedral on the other side of the river. The area outside of the museum is a popular place to spend some time on a sunny day.
Summary
Overall, the Tate Modern provides an eye-opening and enjoyable visit. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just curious about modern art, this museum offers something for everyone. It’s definitely a must-visit spot in London for anyone interested in contemporary culture and creativity.
