Follow Up Friday
A little summary of the week that’s just been!
Including art history news, DIY tips, exhibition & literature reviews, auction announcements, etc.
Email me with your ideas. I’d love to hear from you.
1. Unknown Work by Gaguin Discovered at Bonhams
Summer is slowing making it’s way to London, and there is are newly discovered yellow roses blossoming at Bonhams. Bouquet de roses by Paul Gauguin is featured in the 23rd of June Impressionist and Modern Art sale on New Bond Street. The recently attributed picture, previously unknown even to Gauguin scholars — Bouquet de roses will be offered for sale with estimates of £800,000-£1,200,000.
The oil on canvas, Bouquet de roses, is signed ‘P Gauguin 84’ to the lower right. In 1884 the artist was 36 years of age and still working as a successful Parisian stock broker. However, that year saw a major financial crisis affecting the French economy and as such Gauguin, his Danish wife and their five children left their life in Paris for Rouen.
Read the full press release on this extraordinary discovery on the Bonhams site here.
2. The Google Doodle Archive
I LOVE the Google Doodles and check to see if there is a new one on a daily basis. My computer at work shows me the Canadian options, while my MacBook (in it’s old age) is convinced we still live in London and updates me on all things UK. They mark occasions out of the ordinary — like the 140th anniversary of the RCMP (above) and provide a good five minute distraction from normal internet habits. Their archive shows you which doodles were published where, and what other significant events happened on that day. Click here to check them all out.
3. Sandy Nairne Stepping Down from NPG
Nairne, and his fabulous eyebrows announced yesterday he’s to leave his post as Director of the National Portrait Gallery in February 2015. He is leaving after twelve years in the position to pursue his writing and advisory work. He states in the press release:
It has been a great privilege to lead such a special institution as the National Portrait Gallery, and I am very proud of what we have achieved over the past decade. The fact that two million visitors now come each year to visit exhibitions, take part in activities or see displays of this amazing Collection in London, as well as around the country or online, is testimony to the dedication of all who work at the Gallery and those who support it in so many different ways. The Gallery is in very good shape and will go from strength to strength.
Read the press release sent out by the NPG here.
4. The V&A Celebrate World Cup with Art-y Squad
Kicking off yesterday, the V&A has assembled their own dream team including some of the collections masterpieces.
With a strong representation of players from the Word & Image Department, as well as Ceramics and Theatre & Performance, plus a manager who has ingeniously tattooed the entire squad on his chest, we believe we have a squad that can go all the way and lift the trophy.
You can see their full roster on the V&A blog here.
5. DIY Floral Chandelier
Have you guys noticed this new trend around the internet lately? Chandeliers…made of flowers! They’re beautiful, creating a fun ceiling for a special occasion. Design*Sponge has created a tutorial on how to make your very own, check it out here.
