Sunday 8 April 2012

National Gallery!!

I go for long periods of time without absorbing anything culturally enriching. I just finished a season of Geordie Shore, only to start the new season of Jersey Shore. I need to feed my brain something good instead of all this junk television that tastes so badly good.

I can't lie that I was inspired to go to a gallery by my blogging friends Emi and David who went to see a Yayoi Kusama exhibition at the Tate Modern. One of them was intrigued and the other repusled and their polarized opinions made me want to try viewing art for myself. I was craving something a little bit more classic so I went for the good old National Gallery with my friend Felicity 'Flick' who is certifiably insane and lots of fun.

While I was there I didn't want to get told of for taking pictures (lol Emi) so I wrote down the name of  few paintings I liked. I'll list them below and attempt to tell you exactly why.

Dona Isabel de Parvel- Francisco de Geyo



It's very dark and moody looking. Her smile is suggestive of a seductive elegance. I like the idea of using pictures  as stimuli for writing prose or poetry. I think this would make a good story.

Venice: The Basin of San Marco on Ascencion Day- Canaletto



I love any scene with water, especially when the artist pays special attentions to the way the light plays off the water. It was such a vibrant scene that I wanted to be part of it.

The Coronation of the Virgin- Johann Rottenhammer



This painting is mesmerising. I love the shadow of the clouds and the faces of the saints and the souls in the background, each painted with exquisite detail. All together the painting gives off of a breathtaking ethereal light.

The Holy Family and St John the Baptist- Jacob Jordeans



I remember it from when I went to the National Gallery last summer. It's a really unique representation of the Virgin Mary. She actually looks her age. She looks fragile and innocent. My eye is drawn to her immediately. The rich colour and the lustre in the folds of the fabric is stunning too. This is one of my favourite paintings ever.

Flick being Flick, we couldn't go to an anything without visiting a coffee shop. We also did a tourist stint around Trafalgar Square.

From here on in it's a bit less cultured. Those of an artistic disposition look away now!

Look everyone, Nelson's Column- Huzzah!



Here she is looking modelesque- I am aware that isn't a word. And I'm sure you are aware I care little for the triviality of failing to speak ones first and only language.



And here I am! Attempting to look poised or something. I don't know.


I would definitely encourage you to give the National a bit of time. You only need an hour or so and the National Portrait Gallery is just down the road. Didn't get a chance to to it but will definitely go for it when I have the opportunity.

Bye for now!

6 comments:

  1. Venice: The Basin of San Marco on Ascencion Day looks really detailed and has lots of depth. So much skill involved here. Beautiful painting.

    The National Gallery is one of my favourite chill out spots for when I have that little bit of spare time.

    p.s. I got a mention in this post! :3

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    1. Yes! It was you two that made me want to go! You should go see these in person. It's spiritual, really! ^^

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  2. The last picture made me laugh hahaha Oh Tasha...I know you can do better than that - ♥ But yes that is the exact face I make when some people take pictures of me. O.O .

    P.s. Remember the time when we went to a gallery too...The amount of boobies were delightful!!

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    1. Haha! I haven't quite got the knack of photogenicism like you have yet. I'm working on it though. And I encourage you to go again!

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  3. Replies
    1. I know, being a train away is a blessing. Oh, I did some research (stalking) and I see you have good taste. Love the Topshop accessories you chose- geometric perfection!

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