Tate modern has announced it will stay open until 9pm every Friday and Saturday from September 26, expanding access to the world’s most-visited modern art museum and adding new energy to the capital’s night-time culture, writes Tara Russell...
The move, giving young Londoners and visitors free evening access to the world’s most popular modern art museum, follows records turnout of young visitors to Tate Modern’s 25th birthday weekend.
Held in partnership with UNIQLO, over 76,000 people visited the gallery in three days — 70% of whom were under 35. It builds on the momentum on the Tate Modern Lates, the popular end-of-month events that have attracted over 750,000 people to the gallery since launching in 2016.
Director of the gallery, Karin Hindsbo said: “Over the last decade, Tate Modern Lates have become a cornerstone of London’s nightlife…I’m delighted that Tate Modern will soon be open late every Friday and Saturday evening, making it even more accessible.”
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has also welcomed the news, recognising the transformation Tate Modern has given London’s cultural landscape: “From museums and music venues to late-night galleries and grassroots spaces, there’s no better places to enjoy a great night out.”
Alongside the extension of weekend hours, Tate Modern Lates will continue on the last Friday of each month, offering a special programme of artist talks, creative workshops, film screenings, live music and DJ sets.
Future Lates will explore the inaugural Infinities Commission (28 August), Korean artist Do Jo Suh’s large-scale installations (26 September), and a celebration of Nigerian modern art (31 October).
Meanwhile, Tate’s late Night Bar Corner and Starr Cinema will be hosting events, including food and drink workshops exploring kombucha (26 August) and kimchi (16 September). A discussion with acclaimed artist Yinka Shonibare is also scheduled for 9 October.
With weekend evening access now becoming the norm, Tate Modern affirms its centrality not only as a gallery, but as a vital organ of London’s nightlife.
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