The culture of Italy is practically synonymous with that of artistic culture, boasting an identity rich in art, architecture, design and literature. It is only expected, then, that many of Italy’s famous works and artists end up on exhibition in several of the UK’s many museums and galleries.
Below are some of the current must-see Italian exhibitions, for all those art enthusiasts wanting to immerse themselves in Italian culture a little closer to home.
Francesco Botticini, born in Florence in 1446, was one of the earlier painters of the Renaissance. Born to an artisan father who painted playing cards for a living, he was pre-destined for artistic studies. He studied under several prolific painters of the era, including Neri di Bici but was quickly overshadowed by other great artists of the time, notably Botticelli. Despite his talent being eclipsed somewhat at the time of his work, his pieces are still present in the artistic conscience of today, with his most famous work “The Assumption of the Virgin” being displayed in the National Gallery, London. This exhibition provides the chance to experience this powerful painting in person, whilst also learning about the wealthy, aristocratic life of Palmieri, the man who commissioned this piece.
Sandro Botticelli, an early Italian Renaissance painter born in Florence, is perhaps one of the most well known Italian artists of this movement. He studied under the Medici in the Florentine school during a period which, arguably due to his influence, was named the “Golden Age” less than one hundred years later. Despite being overshadowed by the emergence of High Renaissance style, Botticelli regained his superior status and today his works are classed as the finest examples of florentine art. Among his most famous works are "Primavera" and "The Birth of Venus".
This exhibition explores the impact and lasting effect that Botticelli’s art and style has had on all forms of creative media since being rediscovered almost 300 years after his death. It explores how various artists have interpreted and adapted the style and works of Botticelli and includes over 50 original works, alongside works by artists such as Rossetti, Magritte and Warhol. This is a perfect exploration of artistic impact for those who are interested in Renaissance art or the works of Botticelli himself.
WINTER EXHIBITIONS
v&a
5 March- 3 July 2016
£15 or £10 student
Open daily 10.00 -17.45
visions of paradise: botticini's palmieri altarpiece
4 november 2015-14 february 2016
sunley room
daily 10am-6pm
fridays 10am-9pm
Cultura and Società editor Maya Vincent offers a round up of exhibitions to catch this winter in the UK and Italy.
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