‘Victoriana: The Art of Revival’, Guildhall Art Gallery, City of London, until 8 December 2013

Yumiko Utsu, ‘Octopus Portrait’ (2009). C-type print.
Copyright the artist.

Queen Victoria’s reign saw the ever growing expansion of empire and industry which in turn led to both economic and social changes. We see the legacy of these times in our architecture, arts, literature and possibly still our moral viewpoint.  Of course, the Victorian age was not perfect and there was a dark underbelly, in which events such as the Ripper murders still fascinate today.

Dan Hillier, ‘Mother’ (2006). Altered engraving.
Copyright the artist.

The 19^th century was an age of revivalism of styles past, and in this quirky, whimsical exhibition noted contemporary artists have done their take on what our forbears enjoyed.  Be prepared for a multi-media and multi-sensory “Neo-Victorian” show that embraces ceramics, photography, fine art, textiles, furniture and taxidermy.  It certainly is not Great-Great Aunt Agatha’s parlour recreated!

Miss Pokeno, (Allanah Curry), Trophy Chair (2009). Chair with taxidermy.
Copyright the artist. Photograph copyright Tim Walker

http://www.guildhallartgallery.cityoflondon.gov.uk