12 May 2020 http://www.painters-online.co.uk
NATIONAL GALLERY
Sainsbury Wing,
Trafalgar Square,
London WC2N 5DN
☎ 020 7747 2885
http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk
Artemisia at the National Gallery, London will be the first major exhibition
of Artemisia’s work in the UK, and the inclusion of recently discovered
personal letters, give the artist her own voice. Born in Rome in 1593, she
learnt her trade from her father’s workshop working alongside her brothers,
and quickly built up a reputation for the colour and drama of her paintings
in the style of Caravaggio at a time when there were few opportunities for
women to pursue work as professional artists. She became well-known
during her day for her portrayal of heroines and women from myths,
allegories and the Bible, becoming the first woman to be elected as a
member of the Accademia di Arte del Disegno in Florence.
Paintings in the exhibition include many of her iconic works, such as
Judith Beheading Holofernes, as well as several self-portraits. Susanna
and the Elders, pictured here (right) is the first surviving work of the
17-year-old Artemisia. Various events have been organised by the gallery
to coincide with the exhibition, including lunchtime talks – such as an
introduction to the exhibition by the curator, Letizia Treves on Monday
May 4, 1 to 1.45pm; a study day Artemisia: Artist, Icon, Entrepreneur
on Saturday May 16, 11am to 4pm; and a creative workshop – Artemisia
Creating a Scene, on Saturday April 25, 11am to 4pm when you can paint
from the draped and dramatic life model tableaux of Artemisia’s works.
For full details visit http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/exhibitions/artemisiaARTEMISIA
q Artemisia Gentileschi Mary Magdalene
in Ecstasy, c.1620-25, oil on canvas,
31½ 3 41¾in (80 3 106cm)