ART TOURS 4 HOURS
There are several world-class art galleries in central London waiting to be explored. Where to start? Whether your taste is for the ancients, The Renaissance, the Impressionists or Contemporary art, all tastes are catered for, and I can customise a tour to suit you. May I suggest an overview tour at the National Gallery, whose collection covers early Renaissance to 1900, so Piero della Francesca to
Cezanne. We could spend 90 minutes or so here with some key works before moving on to another gallery, perhaps Tate Britain whose collection of British art (including a fabulous collection of Turner’s paintings) spans 16th century to contemporary art of living artists. This 4 hour tour is usually divided between two galleries, the choice is yours. As an art historian I would be happy to make suggestions for you depending on your own interests. Below are the most popular galleries in London each with a brief description.
Cost for a visit to any two of these galleries £250*
The National Gallery houses one of the great art collections of the world, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Van Dyke, Constable, Monet and Van Gogh
National Portrait Gallery, that adjoins the National Gallery is home to a unique collection of portrait paintings and sculptures commemorating famous British figures from the Tudor period to the present day.
Victoria and Albert (V & A) Museum, a collection of designed objects and decorative arts, unsurpassed anywhere that includes costume, furniture, interiors, porcelain and jewellery.
Tate Britain Gallery, the home of British art from the 16th century to today. There is a changing display of the main collection that includes the Clore Gallery housing the most important collection of JMW Turner’s paintings.
Tate Modern, opened in the year 2000, this former industrial building now houses one of the finest collections of modern and contemporary art in the world.
The Courtauld Gallery offers three separate collections to enjoy from early Renaissance through Baroque up to Impressionist and Post Impressionist paintings.
The Wallace Collection, the former home of a wealthy aristocrat and collector, its twenty five galleries providing spacious viewing for Old Master paintings elegant furniture, porcelain and a wonderful display of arms and armour.
Dulwich Picture Gallery is the oldest in London and houses a superb collection of Old Masters from several different European Schools, including, Dutch, Flemish, French, Italian and English.
William Morris Gallery is dedicated to the British arts and Crafts designer, where one can see the largest collection of his wallpapers, textiles, stained glass, furniture and illuminated books.
The Guildhall Art Gallery A wonderful collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures that depict London and its citizens across the centuries, including many famous portraits of Londoners and those who have contributed to the city’s rich history.
