WHAT? Edwin Austin Abbey: By the Dawn’s Early Light
WHERE? The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN (Room 1)
WHEN? On until 15th February. Free to view.
WHY GO? To be elevated. Still feeling a tad gloomy after the festive season? Stare into the starry universe of a radiant study for The Hours by American artist Edwin Austin Abbey, and be instantly elevated.
Abbey’s glorious celestial extravaganza provides a welcome boost to bleak January skies.
This allegorical composition of angelic figures circling a starry sky swirling between day and night is on display for the first time in London in over a century. It was produced in the artist’s Gloucestershire studio between 1909–1911 before being shipped off to decorate the ceiling of the House of Representatives Chamber in Pennsylvania.
Who was the artist? Philadelphia-born Abbey (1852) was a successful commercial artist who came to the UK in 1878 and stayed, creating this, his most famous and final artwork, between 1909–1911.
Preliminary sketches shown alongside illustrate how Abbey achieved the rhythmic effect of his much-admired mural that delighted fans across both continents where he mingled with other leading artists of the day like Sargent and Millet.
It may not be the Sistine Chapel, but it is heavenly to behold!
IN THE KNOW? Continuing the hypnotic themes of light, shadows and atmosphere, there’s still time to catch the highly acclaimed ‘Wright of Derby: From the Shadows’ exhibition also at The National Gallery.
An earlier era, a different style, but also an artist who invites discussion over his representation of light with his glorious candlelight paintings. On until 10th May.