Botticelli to Van Gogh: Masterpieces from the National Gallery, London opens tomorrow at the NGA
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From tomorrow, art lovers can immerse themselves in some of the world’s most iconic artworks at the National Gallery of Australia’s newest exhibition.
Botticelli to Van Gogh: Masterpieces from the National Gallery, London originally held the coveted title of the NGA’s 2020 Spring/Summer blockbuster exhibition, but due to COVID, the exhibition will open tomorrow, Friday 5 March.
Despite a slightly longer—yet very understandable—wait, lovers of European Masters will be excited to pore over the list of iconic artists and works appearing in the exhibition, including Rembrandt’s Self-portrait at the age of 34, 1640, Vermeer’s A young woman seated at a virginal c 1670 and Van Gogh’s much-loved Sunflowers 1888.
As the title might suggest, the pieces are on loan from London’s National Gallery, with many of the works on display having never previously appeared in Australia.
National Gallery of Australia Director Nick Mitzevich is understandably excited to finally cut the ribbon on this long-awaited exhibition.
“After a year of uncertainty and difficulties for many people, I’m glad we can play a part in bringing joy and inspiration to the community in the form of these extraordinary paintings.”
“Simply, these works are outstanding—this exhibition is a 500-year slice of artistic excellence from some of the greatest creative spirits of all time.”
Carlo Crivelli. The Annunciation, with Saint Emidius. 1486. © The National Gallery, London. Presented by Lord Taunton, 1864.
Running for just over three months, the exhibition will boast 60 works by some of Europe’s most revered artists including Vermeer, Titian, Goya, Turner, Renoir, Gauguin, Cézanne, Rembrandt, Botticelli and Van Gogh.
In total, the works will span 500 years of art history.
“Van Gogh’s Sunflowers 1888 is one of the world’s most popular and widely recognised works of modern art,” says Nick.
“Sunflowers has only been lent outside the British capital on two occasions since its acquisition by the National Gallery, London, in 1924 and now audiences will be able to see it in Canberra.”
Vincent van Gogh, Sunflowers 1888, oil on canvas, 73 x 92.1 cm, National Gallery London. Bought, Courtauld Fund, 1924.
However, Co-ordinating curator Sally Foster says while many of the works were familiar to audiences, they should not underestimate the power of seeing them in real life.
“These paintings are absolutely radiant. They light up the room. There is a reason they are considered masterpieces.”
Jacopo Tintoretto. The Origin of the Milky Way. c. 1575. © The National Gallery, London.
THE ESSENTIALS
What: Botticelli to Van Gogh: Masterpieces from the National Gallery, London
When: 5 March – 14 June 2021
Where: National Gallery of Australia
More information: nga.gov.au/masterpieces
Feature image: Installation view: Anthony van Dyck. Lady Elizabeth Thimbelby and her Sister. c. 1635. © The National Gallery, London.
