I traveled from Brisbane to attend this magnificent exhibition at Bendigo’s historical regional art gallery. The majority of the striking works on display are on loan from the collection of the National Portrait Gallery, London.
Five of the royal dynasties are explored in the exhibition: the Tudors, the Stuarts, the Georgians, the Victorians and the Windsors. The exhibition chronologically and historically traces the British monarchy from the 16th century to the present. Significant, pivotal events such as coronations are depicted in all their regal glory and grandeur.
Some of Britain’s and the world’s most significant royal portraits are presented in this display which highlights key figures and important historical moments. Insight into the developmental process of British art is also provided.
The exhibition enables a critical examination of the impact of the personalities of both the painter and portrayed monarchs upon the completed portraits. Andy Warhol’s vibrant painting of Queen Elizabeth the second is a good example. Warhol retains his unique, bold style whilst capturing a striking likeness of the queen.
Important artists featured include Sir Peter Lely, Sir Godfrey Kneller, Cecil Beaton and Annie Leibovitz.
An incredible amount of work is involved in staging a major international exhibition such as this. Bendigo Art Gallery also secured key loans of royal personal effects, historical fashion pieces and even armour which are exhibited and worth viewing.
I highly recommend a visit to this regal, monarchical exhibition!
Tudors to Windsors: British Royal Portraits
Bendigo Art Gallery, 42 View St, Bendigo
Exhibition continues to Sunday 14 July 2019
Admission fees apply
For more information, visit: www.bendigoartgallery.com.au for details.
Image: Queen Elizabeth I (The ‘Ditchley’ portrait) By Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger, c.1592 (detail) © National Portrait Gallery, London
Review: Michele-Rose Boylan