Exploring Art in Manchester

Recently, I took a quick trip to the Manchester Art Gallery, where I had the chance to revisit some classic works by William Holman Hunt, John William Waterhouse, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and others. It’s always a pleasure to dive into such a rich collection of art, and this visit offered plenty of moments to reflect on technique, storytelling, and the enduring beauty of these works.

Rossetti’s Romantic Poeticism

One highlight for me was Rossetti’s Astarte Syriaca. I’ve always admired Rossetti, partly thanks to Andrew Graham-Dixon’s excellent documentary, but also for the poeticism and romanticism in his work. In Astarte Syriaca, I was struck by the sitter’s elegance and the painting’s vivid greens, which feel both bold and harmonious. The narrative behind Rossetti and his model adds an extra layer of intrigue.

On a technical level, I was relieved to notice some “hard edges” in the painting. Recently, in my studies, I’ve encountered debates about avoiding hard edges in painting. Seeing them here, executed with purpose and finesse, felt validating. It even reminded me of Gustav Klimt—though Klimt wasn’t featured, there’s a subtle connection in their stylistic richness.

The Light and Detail of Holman Hunt

Though I’m not the biggest fan of William Holman Hunt, I always appreciate seeing his work. His storytelling through light and shadow is undeniable, as seen in The Light of the World. Despite its small size, the painting conveys a profound narrative, its use of light creating a spiritual glow.

The Scapegoat was another curious piece. Its rainbow, moonlit tones, and detailed rendering make it feel more like an elaborate illustration than a painting. I’ll admit, I probably need to dive deeper into its context to fully appreciate it, but for now, it feels eccentric in a way that’s more puzzling than moving.

The Mastery of Waterhouse

Finally, there’s Hylas and the Nymphs by John William Waterhouse—a painting so famous it almost feels surreal to see it in person. The balance of light and dark, the elegance of the flesh tones against the rich greens and blues of the water, and the simplicity of the composition are masterful. It’s a painting full of narrative, evoking both serenity and mystery.

Final Thoughts

This quick visit reminded me how much there is to learn from these artists—their storytelling, their use of light, and their attention to detail. Even a short trip to a gallery can offer a wealth of inspiration and insight into your own practice.

If you’re ever in Manchester, make time to explore the gallery—it’s a treasure trove of works that reward careful looking and contemplation.