I've long been a fan of contemporary art, seeking it out in every country I visit – from discovering Warhol's “Silver Clouds” in Seoul, South Korea to encountering Terry O'Neill’s “FAMOUS” photography exhibition in Maastricht, Netherlands. So, when I heard a new contender had entered London's art scene, I knew I had to pay a visit.
The Moco Museum in London, much like its sister museums in Amsterdam and Barcelona, is all about making a bold statement. It’s known for showcasing iconic and up-and-coming artists that challenge societal norms.
In a single building, spread across three floors (accessible by stairs and a lift), you have over 100 of the most valuable contemporary and digital art pieces of the modern world, from iconic graffiti by the ever-elusive Banksy to the culturally significant art of Basquiat.
Located in the heart of the bustling Marble Arch district, home to other quirky attractions such as Frameless and Twist Museum, it's a stone's throw from Marble Arch Underground and just a short 20-minute stroll from Paddington Station.
What's inside the Moco Museum?
First impressions count, which is clearly something Moco understands. Upon entering the vast open space of the ground floor, the high ceilings and clean whitewashed walls make the room feel like a blank canvas, letting the art speak for itself.
I was welcomed by one of the museum's most intriguing installations – Jeff Koons "Dolphin Taz Trashcan" (2007). This piece was a real conversation starter...
"Hang on, is that a blow-up dolphin?!" "What's it made of?" "Ooh, I nearly touched it to check!" "Surely that's not REALLY a blow-up dolphin?"
I’m not typically one to eavesdrop, but I couldn't help but enjoy listening to the chatter of people, filled with confusion, wonder and joy, as they reacted to this unique artwork. Part of the artist’s “Popeye” series, the piece is an inflatable dolphin pool toy rendered in aluminum. That’s right – it's actually made of metal! A true optical illusion.
The rest of the ground floor is a celebration of the masters, featuring works from by Damien Hirst, Yayoi Kusama and Keith Haring. The abstract pieces add vibrant pops of colour, and the clever layout meant I was surprised at the turn of every corner (look out for the hidden Picasso!). With my curiosity officially piqued, I ventured to the lower level.
In the basement, the atmosphere takes on a futuristic vibe, reminiscent of dystopian scenes from a sci-fi movie. Darker, moodier and with secret pockets of artwork, this area invites you to immerse yourself in the installations.
I could have spent hours lost in the calmness of Daan van Hasselt “Endless Realities” (2024), surrounded by lights that made me feel as if I were floating in the depths of space.
Another of my favourite pieces on this level was Daniel Arsham "Lunar Garden" (2024). Inspired by the artist's fascination with Japanese rock gardens, the whimsical installation basks audiences in soft pink hues, inviting them to capture their silhouette in the light of the full moon – which I did, of course.
The first floor was my last to conquer and what an eclectic mix of pieces there was! From pop art to pop stars, there was an essence of playfulness. I snapped away at witty, unconventional quotes, enjoyed satirical jabs at society and seized what is very likely to be my only opportunity to ever appear on the cover of TIME magazine – standing in front of the reflective surface of the Democracy Under Attack installation from Mungo Thomson’s TIME mirror series.
So many artworks had me swooning, but it was Hayden Kay's "All the Love" (2021) that I fell for. Picking up a postcard version, it has made the perfect addition to my already dangerously full shelf of keepsakes. If you’re a fan of gift shops, be sure to peruse the Moco store on your way out.
So, is the Moco Museum worth visiting?
It's not often that a new museum opens in the capital, especially one that can hold its own alongside iconic institutions like the V&A, Tate Modern and the Design Museum, to name a few. With a rotating selection of works by some of the most influential artists, Moco Museum offers a fresh perspective on London’s vibrant art scene.
Grab your most cultured family members or least clumsy pals and spend an hour or two at this unique venue, getting up close with some of the world’s most celebrated contemporary creations.
Don’t miss your chance to see the groundbreaking collection – book Moco Museum tickets now.