Tag Archives: painting exhibition

Why still life art is more subversive than you think

Still life is the lowest form of art. So declared the French Academy when it established the Hierarchy of Species in the 17th century. Historical scenes and portraits were the noblest genres, while landscapes and still lifes were considered lower. According to the art institute, biblical frescoes required a higher level of mastery; A lifeless… Read More »

The hottest show in town? Why does Caravaggio need crowd control at the National Gallery?

Central London’s liveliest new show doesn’t involve a Hollywood star roaming West End stages or a glitzy, blockbuster premiere in Leicester Square. Instead, somewhat surprisingly, there is a dark room in the National Gallery containing two paintings. I was there on Thursday and couldn’t believe my eyes as queues snaked down the stairs from Room… Read More »