The Estorick Collection is a hidden gem in London that is a must-see for anyone interested in modern Italian art. Situated in a beautiful Georgian townhouse in Canonbury, North London, the museum houses an impressive collection of 20th-century Italian art, as well as a library and a cafe.
The Estorick Collection was founded by Eric Estorick, an American art collector, in the 1950s. Estorick had a passion for Italian art and began to amass a collection of works by some of the most important Italian artists of the 20th century, including Giorgio Morandi, Carlo Carr, and Umberto Boccioni. In 1968, he opened the Eric and Salome Estorick Foundation to promote Italian art in the UK, which later became the Estorick Collection.
The museum’s permanent collection is divided into two main sections: Futurism and the School of Rome. The Futurist movement was born in Italy in 1909 and sought to capture the energy and dynamism of the modern world in art. The Estorick Collection has an extensive collection of Futurist paintings, sculptures, and works on paper, including several masterpieces by Boccioni, one of the leaders of the movement.
The other main section of the collection is dedicated to the School of Rome, a group of artists who emerged in the 1920s and 1930s and rejected the more avant-garde tendencies of Futurism. Instead, they sought to create a distinctly Italian form of modernism that was more focused on the human figure and the landscape. The Estorick Collection has an impressive collection of works by the School of Rome artists, including Giorgio de Chirico, Mario Mafai, and Corrado Cagli.
One of the highlights of the Estorick Collection is the temporary exhibitions that are held throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase the work of contemporary Italian artists, as well as exploring various themes related to Italian art and culture. Recent exhibitions have included a retrospective of the work of Italian photographer Franco Grignani and an exploration of the relationship between Italian art and British design.
Alongside the exhibitions, the Estorick Collection offers a range of events, including lectures, film screenings, and workshops. These events provide a deeper understanding of Italian art and culture and are a great way to engage with the museum’s collection.
Another highlight of the Estorick Collection is the library, which is open to the public by appointment. The library contains over 6,000 volumes on Italian art and culture and is a valuable resource for researchers and students.
Finally, the cafe at the Estorick Collection is a lovely spot to relax and enjoy some Italian-inspired cuisine. The cafe serves a range of drinks and snacks, as well as hot meals and desserts. It’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring the museum’s collection.
All in all, the Estorick Collection is a unique and fascinating museum that is well worth a visit. Whether you’re a fan of Italian art or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path museum experience, the Estorick Collection is sure to delight and inspire.
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