An exhibition dedicated to Joseph Wright of Derby will open at the National Gallery in November 2025, showcasing candlelight paintings. This marks the first major exhibition of his work focused on his innovative representation of light and shadow, with contributions from Derby Museums Trust.
Derby is set to host a significant exhibition featuring the works of its renowned 18th Century painter Joseph Wright, famously known as Joseph Wright of Derby. Opening in November at the National Gallery in London, this exhibition will be the first to focus exclusively on his candlelight paintings. The Derby Museums Trust will contribute several works to the display.
Tony Butler, the executive director of Derby Museums Trust, expressed excitement over the event, highlighting Wright’s role in representing industrial and scientific themes in art. The exhibition aims to broaden perceptions of Wright, portraying him not just as a painter of light but also exploring his use of shadow and darkness alongside traditional subjects.
The exhibition, titled “Wright of Derby: From the Shadows,” will feature over 20 works, including paintings and mezzotints, put into context with the artistic and historical developments of the era. Butler noted that the preparation involves ensuring the integrity of the artworks as they are transported to the gallery.
The exhibition will run from 7 November 2025 to 10 May 2026 in the Sunley Room at the National Gallery, marking a key moment in celebrating Derby’s artistic heritage and the legacy of Joseph Wright.
Joseph Wright of Derby was an influential painter in the 18th Century, noted for his unique approach to art that integrated themes of the industrial and scientific revolutions. His works often contrast light and shadow, reflecting profound changes in society during that era. This upcoming exhibition aims to reinterpret his contributions by exploring the broader contexts of his art.
In summary, the upcoming exhibition of Joseph Wright’s works at the National Gallery represents an important moment for Derby’s cultural history. This showcase will not only highlight his candlelight paintings but also challenge conventional views of him as merely a painter of light. The event reflects a deeper understanding of his work’s significance during the 18th Century.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk