Leighton House museum hosts new exhibition by namesake artist
The first exhibition devoted to landscape sketches made by Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-1896) will go on display at Leighton House this autumn.
The show offers an opportunity to see the celebrated Victorian artist in a totally new light – that of a spontaneous, experimental artist who took the road less well trodden by his contemporaries, documenting the people and places he encountered as he travelled.
Leighton and Landscape: Impressions from Nature will display over 60 paintings across the new two gallery spaces and in the historic interiors of the museum, located near Holland Park. Many of the artworks will be returning to the artist’s house-museum for the first time in over 120 years, placing them back where they were originally displayed. Catch the exhibition from Saturday 16 November 2024 to Wednesday, 27th April 2025.
Kim Taylor-Smith, Lead Member for Employment, Culture and Economy, says:
“The Leighton and Landscape exhibition promises to appeal to art lovers and travel enthusiasts alike. A compelling visual journey across Leighton’s most loved regions – from Capri, ‘the island of ‘his heart’, to serene views of the Nile and atmospheric Scottish landscapes. The accompanying catalogue presents fascinating insights and discoveries, a ‘travel journal’ documenting Leighton’s lifelong passion, which deeply inspired his artist-house in Kensington.”
Leighton House is a unique museum near Holland Park, combining a collection of Victorian Art with the intimacy of a private home. The house is the former home and studio of leading Victoria artist, Frederic, Lord Leighton.
The highlight of any visit is the extraordinary Arab Hall which reflects Leighton’s fascination with the Middle East and presents an extraordinary collection of Islamic tiles and mosaic floors.
The Museum, finalist of Art Fund Museum of the Year 2023, has recently completed a major redevelopment which has provided additional gallery space, a new café, improved facilities and a dedicated learning centre. Both the restored wing and the historic house are now step-free access and interconnected thanks to a lift and a spectacular helical staircase, decorated with a hand-painted contemporary mural.
King Charles II visited Leighton House in 2010 and most recently in February 2023.
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