Nestled on the banks of the Thames, just a stone’s throw from Somerset House, Two Temple Place is one of London’s most striking architectural treasures. With its opulent interiors and rich history, this neo-Gothic mansion provides a dramatic backdrop for exhibitions that challenge perspectives and celebrate overlooked narratives. This year, it plays host to Lives Less Ordinary: Working-Class Britain Re-seen, a thought-provoking exhibition running from 25 January to 20 April 2025.
LIVES LESS ORDINARY. Working-Class Britain Re-seen at Two Temple Place ©Richard EatonChallenging Art’s Class Divide
Art has long had a class problem. The lives and contributions of working-class people have often been misrepresented or overlooked, both in artistic depictions and in the industry itself. Lives Less Ordinary seeks to redress these imbalances by celebrating the richness and diversity of working-class experiences in postwar Britain. It brings together more than 150 paintings, photographs, films, sculptures, and ceramics—all created by working-class artists or those from working-class backgrounds.
Curated by Samantha Manton, the exhibition highlights the voices and talents of both contemporary artists and underappreciated 20th-century figures, such as Beryl Cook and Monica Ross. It also shines a light on lesser-known names like Sandra George and Eric Tucker, whose work deserves greater recognition.
A Dialogue Between Art and SettingThe exhibition unfolds thematically rather than chronologically, with works placed in dialogue with one another—and with the grandeur of their surroundings. Originally built for William Waldorf Astor, heir to a vast American fortune, Two Temple Place embodies wealth and privilege in stark contrast to the realities of working-class life. This tension adds an extra layer of depth to the exhibition’s themes.
Yet, look closer and the setting itself tells a more complex story. The exquisite craftsmanship of Two Temple Place—the intricate woodwork, detailed friezes, and lavish ornamentation—was brought to life by the hands of skilled working-class artisans. Their artistry, often anonymous and unsigned, provides an unspoken but powerful counterpoint to the exhibition’s themes.
LIVES LESS ORDINARY. Working-Class Britain Re-seen at Two Temple Place ©Richard EatonA Must-See Exhibition in an Iconic London Venue
Lives Less Ordinary is a rare opportunity to see a compelling collection of artworks that challenge outdated perceptions and celebrate the richness of working-class creativity. And there’s no better place to experience it than Two Temple Place—a venue that not only amplifies the exhibition’s themes but also invites visitors to reflect on the hidden stories within its own walls.
Admission is free, making this an unmissable cultural highlight for Londoners and visitors alike.
