Doing Sotheby’s Jubilee Arts Festival

In honour of Queen Elizabeth II becoming the longest reigning British monarch ever, Sotheby’s is staging a month-long programme of exhibitions, events and auctions. Until 15 June, the Bond Street galleries will host specially curated exhibitions of royal portraits, rare aristocratic jewels and important manuscripts, including works loaned from prestigious private collections.

Must-see treasures include the iconic Armada Portrait of Queen Elizabeth I on loan from The Woburn Abbey Collection and a rare Warhol painting of Queen Elizabeth II. Offered in British Art: The Jubilee Auction on 29 June — a sale dedicated to the very best of British art from across the centuries — is a new unique work donated by Chris Levine.

In addition to the royal-themed exhibitions and auctions, Sotheby’s has curated a diverse programme of talks, debates and musical and dramatic performances inspired by creativity in all its forms, from art, music and literature to food and fashion.

On our radar is the tiara talk on 7 June between jewellery designer Kiki McDonough and Sotheby’s expert Kristian Spofforth and the series of immersive performances by graduates of the Royal College of Dramatic Art. We also recommend snapping up a ticket for the conversation on 13th June at 6.30pm between Turner Prize-winning artist Lubaina Himid, writer Lauren Elkin, Head of Modern, Contemporary African Art at Sotheby’s Hannah O’Leary and art historian Carrie Scott. Hop to it.