Thom Yorke, the renowned frontman of Radiohead, and Stanley Donwood, the band’s long-time collaborator, are set to present their collaborative artwork in a significant public exhibition for the first time. Entitled ‘This is What You Get,’ the exhibition will take place at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, UK, from August 8, 2025, to January 11, 2026. This unique retrospective will showcase the artistic journey of Yorke and Donwood, juxtaposing their music with visual art across various formats. Their works of art span decades, offering a glimpse into the creative synergy between Yorke’s musical genius and Donwood’s distinct visual style.
Stanley Donwood, 56, is celebrated for his captivating designs that have graced every album cover for Radiohead since their collaboration began in 1994 with the ‘My Iron Lung’ EP. His artistic vision has become closely linked with the band’s identity, effectively translating the band’s musical themes into compelling visual narratives. The partnership between Donwood and Yorke began during their university years, underscoring a profound friendship rooted in shared artistic values. Over the years, Donwood has extended his creativity beyond Radiohead to encompass projects associated with Yorke’s other ventures, including Atoms for Peace and The Smile, highlighting a flourishing artistic camaraderie.
In addition to their roles as musicians and visual artists, this exhibition reflects the multifaceted talents of both Yorke and Donwood. The event will feature over 120 works, offering a comprehensive exploration of their art from the 1980s through today. Included in the showcase are the iconic album covers that have captivated fans, as well as personal sketchbooks and notebooks that have never been exhibited publicly before. This blend of public-facing art and intimate glimpses into the artists’ creative processes invites spectators to engage with the underlying stories and inspirations that shaped their collaborations.
Importantly, the exhibition’s location in Oxford holds personal significance for both artists, as it is the city where they and other members of Radiohead grew up. Here, they first formed the band in 1985, under their original name, On a Friday. Bringing ‘This is What You Get’ to the Ashmolean Museum not only celebrates their hometown roots but also serves as a tribute to the artistic journey that has influenced countless fans and musicians alike. The exhibition serves as a homecoming of sorts, allowing viewers to reflect on the connections between place, memory, and creativity.
The exhibition follows a successful showing of Yorke and Donwood’s work at the Tin Man Art Gallery in London the previous year. This prior exhibition laid the groundwork for the extensive retrospective that the Ashmolean Museum promises to deliver, expanding upon the legacy of their creative output. By presenting a comprehensive collection that spans years of collaboration, ‘This is What You Get’ will offer insights into the evolution of their work and the broader cultural impact of Radiohead as a band and a source of inspiration in the art world.
In summary, ‘This is What You Get’ at the Ashmolean Museum represents a milestone event for both Thom Yorke and Stanley Donwood, marking the first public gallery exhibition of their extensive artistic partnership. Through the integration of visual art, personal insights, and nostalgic connections to their upbringing in Oxford, the exhibition promises to engage audiences in a profound exploration of creativity that transcends traditional artistic boundaries. As anticipation builds towards the opening in August 2025, it’s clear that the collaborative spirit of Yorke and Donwood will continue to resonate as a vibrant part of contemporary art and music heritage.
