Chicago-born artist Simone Leigh will take over the Royal Academy of Arts in London in late 2027 with her largest exhibition to date, featuring monumental new works across sculpture, ceramics, and film. The RA confirmed the announcement, describing the show as a major highlight in its upcoming program.

The exhibition will be curated by Tarini Malik, known for organizing John Akomfrah’s acclaimed presentation at the 2024 Venice Biennale. Leigh herself represented the United States at the 2022 Venice Biennale, becoming the first Black woman to do so, and won the Golden Lion for her celebrated work Brick House (2018–19).

Speaking to The Guardian, Leigh revealed that the London show will explore themes of architecture and “art made under fascism.” She drew parallels between American history and current political conditions, saying: “We’re now living under full-on fascism here… all institutions are under attack.” She added that several artists have had commissions stalled or cancelled due to anti-DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) policies.

Her comments come after U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order in January titled “Ending radical and wasteful government DEI programs and preferencing”, effectively dismantling DEI initiatives across federal institutions.

Known for her large-scale sculptures, performances, and socially engaged projects, Leigh often draws inspiration from African and African-American histories, ethnography, feminist critique, and political resistance. Her works, crafted from materials such as raffia, bronze, and ceramics, center the Black female experience.

Leigh’s career highlights include the 2018 Hugo Boss Prize, participation in the 2019 Whitney Biennial, and the creation of Brick House for Manhattan’s High Line. Other notable works include Free People’s Medical Clinic (2014) and Head with Cobalt (2018).

Her 2027 Royal Academy exhibition is expected to cement her place as one of the most significant voices in contemporary art today.