I had an appointment in Highbury, so I visited the Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art for a browse and lunch. Located in the backstreets of Canonbury, the Estorick Collection has been a significant presence in London’s art scene since it opened in 1998. These days, you’ll find a guest exhibition on the ground floor while the permanent Collection is on the upper levels. The Collection is known internationally for its core of Futurist works and figurative art and sculpture from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century. The exhibition program explores artists, movements and ideas that reshape our understanding of Italian art and culture. If you’re looking for the best things to do near Highbury and Islington, small art galleries in London, or a fan of modern Italian art, you’ll ‘amore’ the Estorick Collection.
Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art Exhibits
Eric Estorick, an American sociologist turned art collector, began acquiring Italian art in the 1940s. His encounters with major European artists inspired him. He and his wife, Salome, built their Collection through close relationships with artists like Massimo Campigli and Zoran Music. The Collection was widely exhibited in the 1950s and 1960s, and in 1994, the Estorick Foundation was established to preserve and display these works in London.
The Collection is displayed in a beautifully restored Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse. You’ll discover a bookshop and a café serving Italian-style refreshments with alfresco dining on the ground floor. Galleries one and two are used to display guest exhibitions. On my recent visit, I saw the work of Sergio Strizzi (1931-2004). He was a celebrated still photographer who captured over 100 films from the 1950s to the early 2000s in Italy and internationally.
Beginning as a reporter for Italy’s Publifoto, he received his first film commission in 1952. Strizzi’s notable work includes documenting famous films and actors of that era, including James Bond films and many Hollywood divas. This UK exhibition, organised with Rome’s Archivio Sergio Strizzi, celebrates Strizzi’s artistry. It features 80 images from his distinguished career.
As you go up the staircase to floors two and three, you’ll discover what The Estorick Collection is all about. It’s important to understand that it’s the UK’s only museum dedicated to modern Italian art, showcasing some of the most significant works by Italian artists from the early 20th century.
The collection is particularly renowned for its Futurist pieces, a movement founded in 1909 by F.T. Marinetti that emphasises modern life, technology, and speed. Key Futurist artists represented include Umberto Boccioni, Carlo Carrà, and Giacomo Balla.
Beyond Futurism, the collection features work by other major Italian artists such as Amedeo Modigliani, Giorgio de Chirico, and Giorgio Morandi, as well as sculptures by Medardo Rosso, Emilio Greco, and Marino Marini. It’s a small gallery but an important part of art history so make an effort to support it.
Gift Shop and Caffè Estorick
Admission to the gift shop is free. It offers a thoughtfully curated selection of art-related items. Explore art books, exhibition catalogues, greeting cards, postcards, posters, prints and stationery. You’ll also find charming gifts like fridge magnets and other artistic souvenirs. Can’t visit in person? You can also browse and purchase items from our online shop.
Situated in a tranquil garden setting in the heart of Islington, Caffè Estorick is the perfect spot to unwind. Open Wednesday through Saturday starting at 11 am and Sundays from noon, the café offers a delightful selection of simple, seasonal Italian cuisine. Indulge in classic cocktails, organic wines, speciality coffees, teas and pastries.
The café specialises in Italian-style refreshments, ideal for a light lunch, or a relaxing coffee break. The menu includes burrata with salad, pesto, sourdough, spinach and ricotta ravioli with tomato sauce and aubergine parmigiana. You can also enjoy toasted focaccia with toppings such as tomato and rocket, roasted vegetables, or ham and mozzarella. I can recommend the lemon cake (I’m still thinking about it!).
Watch My Estorick Collection Of Modern Art Video
Visiting The Estorick Collection Of Modern Art
For more information, visit the Estorick Collection website. The gallery is located at 39a Canonbury Square, London N1 2AN, just a short walk from Canonbury or Highbury and Islington stations. The Estorick Collection is open Wednesday to Sunday (check times online). Admission is £7.50 for adults, £5.50 for concessions, and £3.75 for National Art Pass holders. Entry is free for Estorick Collection members, under 18s, and full-time students with a valid ID. Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue. Please note that there are several stairs within the building, so plan accordingly.
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London.