A quarter of a century ago it was a set of bland-looking government offices and a carpark.
But over the years, Somerset House in London has undergone a radical transformation to become what is, today, an unrivalled centre for cultural innovators and internationally acclaimed arts destination.
This year, to mark the 25th birthday of this famous landmark, a number of ‘firsts’ are taking place, all amounting to a special year of programming and a brand new visual identity.
Several cultural luminaries have also praised the role Somerset House has played and continues to play in the cultural world.
Highlights of the anniversary year include “Talent 25” where acclaimed interdisciplinary artist Yinka Ilori will showpiece a brand-new initiative which expands Somerset House’s existing commitment to investing in creative potential.
Another highlight is “Step Inside 25” where the entire building, including its lesser-known artist studios, will be opened to the public. This free, inclusive and family-friendly event invites everyone to connect with the resident cultural innovators and their inspiring work.
Elsewhere, “Setlist”, a brand-new riverside bar features innovative chefs, inspiring artists, and exceptional musicians.
The landmark exhibition this year is called “SOIL: The World at Our Feet”, celebrating the wonder of soil and its unbreakable bond to all life on Earth.
“Spell and the Dream”, meantime, brings together sculpture, radio, live gatherings and a host of guest contributors, to collectively dream of new horizons.
To also mark the 25th landmark, Somerset House Studios resident Akinola Davies Jr. will premiere his latest film, capturing the everyday rituals that shape the rhythms of Black life in the UK.
The screening will be accompanied by live music, creating a unique and immersive experience.
“Virtual Beauty”, another highlight in 2025, explores the impact of digital technologies on the traditional concept of beauty, inviting visitors to examine their relationship with identity in the post-internet era.
Meanwhile, “Salt Cosmologies” – a multi-dimensional project featuring a large-scale courtyard installation by cross-disciplinary collective Hylozoic/Desires – explores the complex weave of histories and myths around Britain’s imperial salt monopoly in India.
That’s not all: a couple of artists, Sophia Al-Maria and Lydia Ourahmane, have created a new outdoor artwork on site inspired by the history of the building and their collaborative exploration around the idea of ‘right to remain’.
Commenting on this year’s celebrations, Jonathan Reekie, Director of Somerset House, said,
“Somerset House’s 25th birthday programme has been carefully curated to showcase the artistic innovation and cross- disciplinary creativity that defines who we are today.
“Our intention is not only to celebrate our history but also to highlight our role as a platform for bold new ideas, fostering an inclusive creative community.
“By turning over space to artists and creatives, we’re supporting the next generation of cultural innovators, feeding a programme that provides creative solutions to real-world issues through alternative perspectives. It is remarkable to think how far we’ve come income since the public first entered this beautiful building and courtyard 25 years – establishing Somerset House as a welcoming, leading international arts destination for all.”
Justine Simons, Deputy London Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries said:
“Over the last 25 years, Somerset House has become a staple of London’s cultural scene and a dynamic home for creatives, bringing people together and nurturing the tremendous talent in our city. I’m really looking forward to this great 25th birthday programme.”
Brian Eno, musician, songwriter, record producer and visual artist said:
“This great institution is evolving into something beautiful and significant for the future.”
His comments are endorsed by Leah Williamson, the England footballer, who said:
“Somerset House has always been somewhere for us to come as a family and just spend time together.
“Be that in the fountains on a summer day back when I was a kid, ice skating at Christmas or coming to concerts here with my Grandma. It’s always been my favourite place in the world since I was a little kid and I now recognise Somerset House as less of a place and more of a feeling.”
