Modern Visionaries: Van Dyck and the Artists' Eye

This is a historic exhibition. It is no longer available to visit and this page is only retained as a record of the previous event. For current and future exhibitions, visit our What's On page.

An exhibition featuring Sir Anthony Van Dyck's last self-portrait

‘Self-portrait by Sir Anthony van Dyck, c.1640 © National Portrait Gallery, London’

Dates

Until 4 June 2017 (historic exhibition)

About

Inspired by the remarkably innovative style of Sir Anthony van Dyck's last self-portrait, acquired for the nation in 2014, this exhibition pairs the painting with stunning works by major artists of the 20th and 21st century.

Like Van Dyck's self-portrait, the selected works offer the viewer direct eye-contact with a visionary artist, from David Bomberg, Francis Bacon and L.S. Lowry, to Sarah Lucas, Chris Ofili, and Jane & Louise Wilson. Composed of loans from the National Portrait Gallery and works from the Laing's own collection, alongside a contemporary artist's commission, the exhibition asks what it means to confront these great artists face-to-face, exploring themes of genius, creativity and the artist's role in society.

Van Dyck's self-portrait was acquired by the National Portrait Gallery following a major public appeal with the Art Fund and thanks to the generous support of the Heritage Lottery Fund and others.

Find out more about Van Dyck’s nationwide tour.

Funders

Van Dyck Van Dyck