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Our first floor galleries are closed while we change over exhibitions.

Our Clore Learning Studio and ground floor Sunley Gallery, shop and toilets open 11am–5pm; cafe open 11am–3pm.

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Talks & Tours

A Life in Pictures:
Martin Gayford on David Hockney

A Life in Pictures: Martin Gayford on David Hockney

Entry

£12 low income / £15 standard entry / £18 pay it forward

Date

Fri 23 Oct 2026

Time

6-8pm

Location

Sunley Gallery, Turner Contemporary

Join acclaimed writer, critic and curator Martin Gayford for a special evening exploring the life, work and ideas of David Hockney.

A long-time friend and collaborator of Hockney, Gayford offers a unique perspective on one of the most influential artists of our time. Speaking in front of Hockney’s 27th April 2020, No.1  he will reflect on the artist’s extraordinary career, his approach to looking and making, and their many years of conversations about art.

The talk will be followed by audience questions and a book signing, with the bar open before and after the event.

Schedule

  • 6pm: Bar opens
  • 6.30-7.30pm: Talk, followed by Q&A and book signing
  • 7.30pm: Bar re-opens
  • 8.30pm: Event ends

About Martin Gayford

Martin Gayford is a writer, critic and curator. He is the author of books on Michelangelo, Constable, Van Gogh and Lucian Freud. He wrote A History of Pictures and Spring Cannot be Cancelled in collaboration with David Hockney. His most recent publications are How Painting Happens (and why it matters), 2024 and My Heart is This: Tracey Emin on Painting, 2026.

Supported by

And the David Hockney Sunley Window Project Supporters' Circle:

Bernard Sunley Foundation

Robert Bricout and Liesl Fichardt

Christian and Geraldine Brodie

Hugo and Kate Fenwick

H.R. Pratt Boorman Family Foundation

The J F Charitable Fund

Frank and Stephanie Martin

The Ross Foundation 

Clive and Brigitte Stevens

Header image: David Hockney: Sunley Window 2026. Installation view, courtesy Turner  Contemporary.  Photo: Above Ground Studio (Seraphina Neville). © Turner Contemporary

Accessibility Information

We’re wheelchair accessible, with step-free access and a lift serving both floors. You can enter the gallery via the access ramp to the right of the entrance steps. 

You can also borrow a wheelchair or portable stool during your visit, and our staff will be happy to help if you require any additional assistance. 

Entry to the exhibition is free, but we welcome donations.

Turner Contemporary, Rendezvous, Margate, CT9 1HG

Related Events & Exhibitions

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  • Display

    David Hockney: Sunley Window 2026

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