The grand stately home of Wentworth Woodhouse in Rotherham is set to host a remarkable art exhibition, “Beneath the Surface: George Stubbs & Contemporary Artists,” from July 30 to November 3, 2024.
This exhibition celebrates the 300th birthday of the renowned Georgian artist George Stubbs, showcasing seven of his paintings, four of which were created during his residency at the estate in 1762.
A Historic Collaboration
In 1762, George Stubbs, a highly sought-after artist known for his precise and naturalistic animal paintings, was invited to Wentworth Woodhouse by the 2nd Marquess of Rockingham, Charles Watson-Wentworth.
Over the course of a year, Stubbs produced some of his most acclaimed works, including the celebrated portrait of the racehorse Whistlejacket. This masterpiece, notable for its unfigured background, is hailed as one of the most important British paintings of the 18th century.
Exhibition Highlights
The “Beneath the Surface” exhibition is a significant event for Wentworth Woodhouse, bringing together seven exceptional Stubbs paintings, four of which were created during his time at the estate. The featured works include:
- Mares and Foals with an Unfigured Background
- Whistlejacket with the Head Groom and Two Other Principal Stallions
- Portrait of Scrub in a Landscape with John Singleton Up
- Five of Lord Rockingham’s Stag Hounds in a Landscape
These pieces are being loaned from a private collection, along with Stubbs’ “Anatomy of A Horse,” published in 1766. Additionally, the exhibition will showcase three other Stubbs works: “A Monkey,” “Two Horses Communing in a Landscape,” and “Phillis’ a Pointer of Lord Clermont’s.”
Contemporary Art Meets Historical Masterpieces
In an innovative approach, the exhibition will also feature works by nine contemporary artists who explore themes ‘beneath the surface’ of their subjects. Notable artists include Tracey Emin and Turner Prize winner Mark Wallinger, whose thought-provoking pieces will be displayed alongside Stubbs’ historical works.
The contemporary artworks will include taxidermy dogs, a horse cast in glass, and a cowgirl on Margate beach. Artists such as Sutapa Biswas, Kathleen Herbert, Jochem Hendricks, Jo Longhurst, Melanie Manchot, Ugo Rondinone, and Hugo Wilson will contribute to the exhibition, providing a dialogue between historical and modern perspectives on the human-animal relationship and artistic expression.
Insights and Discoveries
The exhibition is supported by extensive research conducted by the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust’s team of volunteer researchers. Studies of letters and documents at Sheffield Archives have provided new insights into Stubbs’ time at Wentworth, his relationship with the Marquess, and the lives of the servants depicted in his paintings. The exhibition will also explore the significance of horse racing to Rockingham, with items loaned from Heritage Doncaster.
Community Engagement and Cultural Ambitions
Victoria Ryves, the Trust’s Head of Culture and Engagement, emphasizes the exhibition’s importance in establishing Wentworth Woodhouse as a cultural hub for the North. The Trust’s largest ever exhibition, it aims to attract art enthusiasts and the general public alike, highlighting the mansion’s historical and cultural significance.
The exhibition is supported by public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England and the Government Indemnity Scheme, making it possible to bring these world-class works to Rotherham.
Local Artistic Talent
The exhibition will also feature contributions from ArtWorks South Yorkshire, a charity supporting adult artists with learning disabilities. Inspired by Stubbs’ works, these artists visited key locations on the estate and created their own interpretations, which will be displayed alongside the masterpieces.
Whistlejacket’s Legacy
Although the original Whistlejacket painting remains at the National Gallery, it will have a presence in the exhibition through various interpretations. These include a portrait replica in the mansion, a screen print by Mark Wallinger, and a contemporary take by Hugo Wilson, depicting the horse in a dynamic and irreverent pose.
Workshops, Talks, and Tours
“Beneath the Surface” will be accompanied by a vibrant program of workshops, talks, and tours, offering visitors deeper insights into the works on display and the historical context of Stubbs’ art.
Exhibition Details
- Dates: July 30 to November 3, 2024
- Time: 10am-5pm
- Location: Wentworth Woodhouse, State Rooms
- Admission: Included with a house admission ticket
- Booking: Visit Wentworth Woodhouse for tickets and more information.
