Compton Verney shows Jack B. Yeats ~ Masquerade & Spectacle

Monday, 29 September 2008 00:20

 

Compton Verney, UK - This exhibition looks at the intriguing world of the circus and traveling fair in the work of Jack B Yeats (1871-1957). Yeats became fascinated by the circus, its live dynamic and the characters he encountered, when he first visited fairs and small traveling circuses in his native Sligo. In 1887, at the age of sixteen, he joined his parents in London and became a regular visitor to the spectacular London circuses. On View through 14 December, 2008 at Compton Verney, UK.

His sketches and paintings capture dramatic moments where the viewer is aware of the unique experience of watching a performer interact with a crowd and the dynamic of live events unfolding. He held the character of the clown in particular fascination and was drawn into their world of comedy, mystery and song.

His paintings are often poetically titled and hint at more personal motivations underlying the characters depicted and his own ideas of creativity and artistic intent.

The exhibition at Compton Verney will include a number of important works including His Grand Conversation was under the Rose (1943), Alone (1994) and The Singing Clown (1928). Works on loan will be from both private and public collections. Organised by Compton Verney in collaboration with the National Gallery of Ireland.

Compton Verney houses six permanent collections, focusing on areas currently under-represented in British museums and galleries. The collections are owned by the Compton Verney Collections Settlement and continue to grow, supported by funds from the Peter Moores Foundation. The temporary exhibitions programme offers both historic and contemporary shows and is designed to appeal to a wide audience.  Visit : http://www.comptonverney.org.uk/

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