The opening of Artemisia at the National Gallery

Artemisia is probably the most expected art show of the year, and it had its opening the last 3 October at the National Gallery of London. The exhibit is located at the Sainsbury Wing of the gallery. This is the first major exhibition of Artemisia Gentileschi in the UK.

Self-Portrait as the Allegory of Painting by Artemisia Gentileschi – c.1638-9

“I will show Your Illustrious Lordship what a woman can do”

The 17^th century was a time when women artists were not easily accepted despite their talent. Artemisia Gentileschi was an exceptional painter who defied the expectations and conventions of her time to achieve success on the profession, she became one of the most important storytellers of the time by painting subjects that traditionally destined to male artists and to male viewers.

She transformed submissive maidservants into brave women, and most importantly, she made victims into survivors.

Here is the trailer of the exhibition:

There is many additional information on the exhibition at the National Gallery’s website, such as her letters or some of the heroines portraited by the artists, as well as videos on her Judith beheading Holofernes or Artemisia’s rape trial.

Undoubtedly, a fantastic art show on one of the most remarkable women artists. If you cannot go to London to visit the exhibition, you can already acquire the catalogue, I know it is not the same, but it will bring the show closer to you.