Huma Bhabha’s Provocative Exhibition at the Barbican

The Barbican Centre in London is currently hosting Encounters: Giacometti x Huma Bhabha, an exhibition running from May 8 to August 10, 2025. This show inaugurates a new series that juxtaposes the works of contemporary artists with those of the renowned 20th-century sculptor Alberto Giacometti. Bhabha, a Pakistani-American artist based in Poughkeepsie, New York, is celebrated for her visceral sculptures that explore themes of war, displacement, and the human condition.

Bhabha’s sculptures, crafted from materials such as cork, terracotta, and found objects, present fragmented human forms that evoke both ancient relics and futuristic beings. Her works, including pieces like Mask of Dimitrios (2019) and Feel the Hammer (2024), confront viewers with a blend of beauty and horror, reflecting on the traumas of contemporary existence.

Displayed alongside Giacometti’s iconic elongated figures, Bhabha’s sculptures create a dialogue that spans time and culture. While Giacometti’s works were shaped by the aftermath of World War II, Bhabha’s pieces address modern anxieties, drawing inspiration from science fiction, horror films, and global conflicts.

The exhibition is housed in the Barbican’s newly inaugurated Level 2 gallery, a space designed to foster intimate encounters between artworks and audiences. Visitors can explore the thematic and material resonances between the two artists, gaining insights into how different eras grapple with similar existential concerns.

Encounters: Giacometti x Huma Bhabha is the first in a trilogy of exhibitions at the Barbican, with upcoming shows featuring Mona Hatoum and Lynda Benglis. Tickets are priced at £8, with discounts available for students and members. For those interested in a comprehensive experience, a multi-buy option allows access to all three exhibitions for £20.