Francis Bacon's Sleeping Figure, 1959, is currently on display at London's Royal Academy of Arts, in the exhibition; Rubens and His Legacy, Van Dyck to Cézanne. The exhibition on now through to 10 April, features over 160 works, bringing together Sir Peter Paul Rubens's (1577–1640) masterpieces, as well as major works by great artists who were influenced by him. The Royal Academy of Arts website describes it as "a far reaching and remarkable legacy". Bacon's Sleeping Figure, 1959, is included in La Peregrina, a personal and contemporary response to Rubens and His Legacy by celebrated artist and Royal Academician Jenny Saville. Saville has brought together artists from Picasso to the present day whose work connects with Rubens's. From the fleshy handling of paint to the use of colour, violence and spectacle, Saville’s selection shows the continuing preoccupations artists share with Rubens. Francis Bacon's art joins works by fellow major 20th and 21st century artists including Pablo Picasso, Sarah Lucas, and Lucian Freud. Saville herself has created new work especially for this occasion.
“Whether you think you like Rubens or not, his influence runs through the pathways of painting. Like Warhol, he changed the game of art.” - Jenny Saville RA
The exhibition is curated by Dr Nico Van Hout, Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Antwerp and Dr Arturo Galansino Curator, Royal Academy of Arts, London with an advisory committee of advisors including art historians, Sir Christopher White and Elizabeth McGrath. For more information on this exhibition, including ticketing, audio, video, and info on related events, please visit the exhibition website. Rubens and His Legacy, Van Dyck to Cézanne 24 January 2015 - 10 April 2015 The Royal Academy of Arts London Word reference: The Royal Academy of Arts website, online large print labels and press release. Please note all details including exhibition dates are subject to change, and tickets are subject to availability. For all confirmation please contact the Royal Academy of Arts website.
