I'm a big fan of the pre-raphaelites. After I finished my university degree, I went on a "pilgrimage" of sorts from Australia to the UK to go see the TATE Britain and National Portrait Gallery.
Seeing the works of Millais, Holman-Hunt, Waterhouse et-al and others in the flesh was incredible as an experience, and transitioned those artists from myth to reality.
I was also very lucky that there was a massive Turner exhibition going on at the same time, and being able to see some Deleroache paintings rounded out the trip very nicely.
If it weren't for the small seats and stupidly expensive fares out of Australia, I'd certainly travel to see more art.
I was really pleased when I was in the US and got to see Duchamp's "Nude Descending a Stair Case" - without even knowing (beforehand) that it was on display at the Philadelphia Art Gallery at the time. That was a very nice surprise, as its the one piece of "modern" art that tends to resonate with me.
On the whole, I just love the truth in the painting of the Pre-Rapaelites, how they equalised their subject matter and focused on the ephemerality and fragility of human life, while bringing their narrative roots toward myth and fable.
I could talk about art for days and days.
Thanks for sharing some of your favourite work!
Thank you so much for sharing your favorite artists and experiences. I have little exposure to Pre-Raphaelites. One of my first museum experiences and one that really sparked my desire to see more was at the National Gallery in London. So much great art in London!
Yes, Turner is great. There are some Turner paintings at the National Gallery in DC. He has such a unique style that really sets him apart and makes him stand out. I feel like if I see a great sea scape with a dramatic sky it is likely Turner!