Varnish Day
Barrie Sheppard continues his illuminating discussion of J M W Turner’s artistic practice. Barrie writes: Varnish day at London’s Royal Academy during the nineteenth century would be more aptly named …
And I would that my tongue could utter …
Barrie Sheppard continues his exploration of the life and times of Turner. Barrie writes: In December 1807 JMW Turner, Royal Academician since 1802, was elected Professor of Perspective. He was …
Constable in love
Barrie Sheppard continues his exploration of the life and times of John Constable. Barrie writes: In 1816, English landscape painter John Constable married Maria Bicknell. He was 40, she 28. …
The Golden Dagger of Ahasuerus
In today’s post, Howard Wallace examines the significance of the golden dagger in the biblical story of Esther. Howard writes: Arent De Gelder (1645-1727), a one-time student of Rembrandt, has …
Temeraire
Boxing Day is a day for relaxation after the festivities of Christmas Day. Australian artist Deborah Walker’s lithograph in the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria suggests one possible …
A Devlin of an Artist
Prior to ‘cashless covid commerce’ most of us have unknowingly handled Australian gold and silversmith Stuart Devlin’s most enduring artistic creations. Devlin designed Australia’s first decimal coinage system which was …
Seeing Red
Another fascinating insight into the lives of English artists – John Constable and JMW Turner by Barrie Sheppard. Barrie writes: John Constable was elected an Associate Member of the Royal …
Playing the game …
Barrie Sheppard provides a glimpse into the ‘strategic mind’ of the English artist, Joseph Mallord William Turner. Barrie writes: J. M. W. Turner applied for Associate membership of the Royal …
Reynold’s ‘Herculean’ painting
Barrie Sheppard continues to add to our knowledge of the life and times of Sir Joshua Reynolds. Barrie writes: The Hermitage in St Petersburg holds Sir Joshua Reynolds’ history painting …
Deconstructing Louise
Looking at Tom Roberts’ portrait of Louise Smith, Sylvia Walsh digs deep. Sylvia writes: ‘As a reflection of historic appearances this painting raises many questions: Who was Louise? Captured in …