In autumn 2008, Manchester Art Gallery staged the first international exhibition of the work of Pre-Raphaelite master William Holman Hunt in over 40 years.
Manchester Art Gallery
Saturday 11 October 2008–Sunday 11 January 2009
Free
For the first time ever, visitors could see all three versions of Hunt’s world famous painting The Light of the World displayed together, alongside popular works such as The Awakening Conscience and Isabella and the Pot of Basil.
This exhibition also offered the chance to see rarely shown drawings and watercolours by Hunt, including a self-portrait on loan from the Uffizi gallery, Florence, Italy.
These were complemented by favourite works from the gallery’s own collection including The Hireling Shepherd and The Scapegoat. Patrons could also find out more about Hunt’s central role in the radical Pre-Raphaelite art movement. Displays included maps, photographs and letters trace his life in the UK and periods of residence in the Middle East.
Contemporary views of Hunt’s work were available for exploration through interactive displays created by families of different faiths. You could even add your own thoughts about Hunt’s religious paintings and their continuing relevance today.
For those who enjoy quiet study and reflection, reading and seating areas were provided.
Read Carol Jacobi’s recent article, Holman Hunt: The Hirst of his time for the Guardian Online.
Exhibition organised by the Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, Canada in association with Manchester Art Gallery.
Exhibition supported by the North West Regional Development Agency.
