Step into the French Riviera in the West End this autumn
Art of London partners with the Royal Academy of Arts to bring Painting the French Riviera beyond the gallery walls with a free immersive experience across the West End.
Tuesday 22 September
This autumn, the West End is bringing a little French Riviera sunshine to London.
HOLBA's Art of London is partnering with the Royal Academy of Arts to launch Step Into the French Riviera, a free immersive public art experience inspired by the Royal Academy’s forthcoming exhibition, Painting the French Riviera.
Launching across Piccadilly, Jermyn Street and Mayfair in October, the experience will transform three artworks from the exhibition into larger-than-life installations, inviting visitors to step inside the paintings and experience them through colour, sound and scent.
From the vibrant coastal scenes of Raoul Dufy and André Derain to the vivid blue of Yves Klein, the trail will bring the creative spirit of the Riviera out of the gallery and into the streets of the West End.
Culture beyond gallery walls
Step Into the French Riviera reflects Art of London’s ongoing commitment to bringing culture beyond gallery walls and creating new ways for people to experience art in the heart of the West End.
It also offers another reason to explore the destination, connecting the Royal Academy’s exhibition with the wider mix of culture, dining, shopping and experiences across Piccadilly, Jermyn Street and Mayfair.
The experience comes at a time when the value of culture extends beyond entertainment. New research from Art Fund shows that even short encounters with art can support wellbeing and reduce stress, highlighting the positive role cultural experiences can play in everyday life.
Step Into the French Riviera runs throughout October and is free to visit. Further details, including participating businesses and launch activity, will be announced in the coming weeks.
🎨 Art of London presents Step Into the French Riviera
📍 London West End. Locations include Piccadilly Circus, Jermyn Street and The Mayfair Hotel
🗓️ 6th October – 25th October 2026
🎁 Free to attend the immersive public art experience