WHAT?  Michael Craig-Martin

WHERE?  Royal Academy of Arts, Main Galleries, Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J OBD

WHEN?  Now until 10th December 

WHY GO?  To meet a maverick artist.  From his brand new immersive installation Cosmos, to the colourful images that sing out with a Sixties vibe, this explosive retrospective of Craig-Martin’s work is a visual feast that will appeal across the board.

It encapsulates an age when pop morphed into minimalism and provides a much needed dash of cheer and colour in these austere times.

Craig-Martin’s name may not be as renowned as Warhol, but his work is just as significant and immediately recognisable , and just as desirable for collectors.

From his early conceptual work that caused quite a stir in the Seventies, namely An Oak Tree (1973) to the bold graphic artworks executed with precision that we associate with his name today, this blockbuster shows the lot progressing through six decades. 

Now aged 83, Craig-Martin is as curious and inspired as ever by the everyday objects we take for granted and portrays them in his own individual style.

It’s impossible not to love an artist who can make an ordinary light-bulb, filing cabinet or safety pin look magical in rainbow colours and by adding bold script give them that extra stylish edge. 

Craig-Martin famously taught many of the now famous YBA’s, names like Sarah Lucas and Damien Hirst, how fitting therefore, that his work should now be put on a pedestal in the gallery he so admires.

IN THE KNOW  To delve deep into the mindset of Craig-Martin before you visit, check out the RA magazine's excellent comprehensive feature by Ravi Ghosh then book the upcoming curator's talk on 2nd October where the artist discusses his pioneering 60-year career. 

Ticket info online