The Hearst Art Gallery shows 'The Second Golden Age of Dutch Art / 19th Century'

Saturday, 11 October 2008 21:58

MORAGA, CA.- The Hearst Art Gallery at Saint Mary’s College presents today an exhibition of more than sixty nineteenth century Dutch masterpieces from the collection of. Dr. Jan and Mrs. Mary Ann Beekhuis. The nineteenth century was a tremendous period of artistic creativity and productivity in the Netherlands. Fueled in part by the return of Dutch independence in 1813, collecting art became popular with the growing middle class, and the number of Dutch artists increased six-fold between 1800 and 1840. The works selected for the exhibition have rarely been on view, and never before on the West Coast. On view 12 October through 14 December, 2008.

Paintings by more than sixty different artists represent a broad range of styles and subject matter, including cityscapes, landscapes, seascapes, still lifes, portraits, and interiors. The exhibition is comprised of three main groupings: Dutch Romanticism, The famous Hague School, and Dutch Impressionism. Many of the artworks are large in scale. A richly illustrated and substantial catalog, with an essay by the curator and a complete checklist, accompanies the exhibition.

The art collection originated in the early part of the 20th century, with the first gallery opening in 1934. The present Hearst Art Gallery, built in 1977 with a grant from the Hearst Foundation, serves both the Saint Mary's College community and the public. Exhibitions and events are enhanced by a wonderful group of volunteers who assist with all aspects of museum operations and members whose generous support makes many programs and publications possible.

The Hearst Art Gallery was built with the aid of a grant from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation. The Gallery opened in 1977, replacing a smaller William Keith Gallery. The College previously collected and distributed art for several decades, including many works by William Keith (1838-1911), a key figure in the history of California art. Brother Fidelis Cornelius Braeg, Saint Mary's College art professor and Keith biographer, established the original William Keith Collection and Gallery at Saint Mary's in 1934. Visit : www.hearstartgallery.org/