As much of Europe endures a heatwave, cultural venues offer a welcome respite. This week brings a rich mix of exhibitions, film releases, and television premieres across the continent, from London to Athens.
Exhibitions
Frida: The Making of an Icon at Tate Modern, London
Opening on 25 June 2026 and running until 3 January 2027, the Tate Modern presents a major retrospective of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The exhibition traces her evolution from early works to her status as a global cultural icon. It features more than 30 of her most famous self-portraits—those shifting, layered depictions of identity—alongside over 200 works by contemporary artists she influenced. Curators have framed the show not merely as a homage but as an exploration of how Kahlo’s unflinching vision continues to resonate across generations. For those in London, this is a rare chance to see such a concentrated collection of her work.
The Way We Live Now at George Economou Collection, Athens
In Athens, the George Economou Collection presents The Way We Live Now, an exhibition inspired by Anthony Trollope’s 1875 novel. Curated by Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Hilton Als and Ann Philbin, director emeritus of the Hammer Museum, the show re-evaluates one of Europe’s most significant private art collections through the lenses of literature, politics, and societal challenges. Each piece stands out individually, but together they form stark—and sometimes unsettling—reflections on contemporary life. The exhibition runs from 20 June 2026 to March 2027.
For those in France, the Witches exhibition at Nantes’ Château des ducs de Bretagne closes on 28 June. It delves into witchy history and mythos, offering a potent mix of folklore and historical context.
Film
Supergirl (in cinemas from 26 June)
This summer’s most anticipated superhero film arrives with a twist: emotional stakes are raised by a flying dog. Milly Alcock stars as Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, whose best friend Krypto the Superdog is attacked by space pirates. The plot follows a John Wick-style quest for vengeance and a cure. Given that last year’s Superman was well-received for its campy heart, expectations are high for this spin-off. Bring tissues.
Television
House of the Dragon, Season 3 (HBO Max, from 22 June)
After a two-year hiatus, the Targaryen civil war—the Dance of the Dragons—escalates. Based on George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood, the new season picks up with Queen Alicent (Olivia Cooke) after her surrender and throws viewers into the violent conflicts across Westeros. Expect large-scale dragon battles and political intrigue. For those who found the early episodes slow, the action is about to intensify.
Also on HBO Max from 27 June: Larry David returns with a new sketch show, Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness, following the finale of Curb Your Enthusiasm.
Music
Muse release 10th album (26 June)
English rock band Muse drops their tenth studio album, titled after a mysterious 1977 radio signal that hinted at alien life. Known for mid-2000s space anthems, the band has struggled to match the critical acclaim of Black Holes and Revelations (2006). Still, for fans, a new cosmic-themed album offers a chance to escape earthly concerns.
For those seeking a deeper dive into London’s cultural scene, the Museum of Youth Culture celebrates a century of British subcultures. Meanwhile, as heatwaves intensify, Spain braces for temperatures up to 45°C, making air-conditioned venues all the more appealing.
