Spectacular Light Show Celebrates 200 Years of the National Gallery ✨

Summary

The National Gallery celebrates its 200th anniversary, showcasing its growth from 38 paintings in 1824 to a world-renowned collection. It highlights key moments like the move to Trafalgar Square, the addition of Impressionists, and the establishment of a scientific department. The gallery's commitment to accessibility is evident with free entry and educational programs, making art accessible to all. Personal stories from visitors and the director emphasize the gallery's impact on art lovers and its role in bringing people together.

Takeaways

• 🎨 **Establishment**: The National Gallery was established in 1824 with the House of Commons voting to create the first national collection of paintings.
• 🖼️ **Initial Collection**: The gallery started with 38 paintings from the John Julius Angerstein collection.
• 🏢 **First Location**: The first location was at 100 Pall Mall, the former home of Angerstein.
• 📈 **Expansion**: The gallery moved to Trafalgar Square in a building designed by William Wilkins due to overcrowding.
• 🎨 **Turner Bequest**: In 1856, the gallery received a generous bequest from the painter Turner, including many of his own masterpieces.
• 🏛️ **Room Additions**: In 1876, new rooms including the Octagon room were added, designed by Edward M. Barry.
• 🗓️ **Sunday Openings**: Sunday opening began in 1896, allowing public access to the gallery 7 days a week.
• 🚨 **War Threats**: During World War I, 675 paintings were removed due to threats of aerial bombardment.
• 🌉 **Impressionists Arrival**: Impressionist paintings were added to the collection in 1917.
• 🔬 **Scientific Department**: In 1934, the gallery appointed a Scientific Advisor, laying the foundation for conservation work.
• 💡 **Electric Lighting**: Electric lighting was installed in 1935, allowing the gallery to stay open after dark.
• 🌍 **WWII Scattering**: During World War II, the collection was scattered across England and Wales for safekeeping.
• 🎶 **Cultural Hub**: Despite the scattering of the collection, the gallery remained a cultural hub with concerts by Myra Hess.
• 🏫 **Learning Program**: In 1974, the gallery established the country's first learning program dedicated to schools.
• 🏗️ **Building Expansion**: The building expanded again in 1991 with the opening of the Sainsbury Wing.
• 🌐 **Accessibility**: The gallery continues to be a free space for everyone, supported by the government, the art fund, and public generosity.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 **Public Engagement**: The gallery is a space that brings people and paintings together, as shared by various visitors in the script.

Q & A

When was the National Gallery first established?

The National Gallery was established in April 1824.

How many paintings were initially acquired for the National Gallery?

Initially, 38 paintings were acquired from the John Julius Angerstein collection.

Where was the National Gallery first opened?

The first National Gallery opened at 100 Pall Mall, in the former home of Angerstein.

Why was a new building needed for the National Gallery?

A new building was needed because the original house became overcrowded after more paintings were generously given.

Who designed the new National Gallery building in Trafalgar Square?

The new National Gallery building in Trafalgar Square was designed by William Wilkins.

When did the National Gallery receive a generous bequest from the painter Turner?

The National Gallery received a generous bequest from the painter Turner in 1856.

What significant addition was made to the gallery in 1876?

In 1876, a new suite of eight ornate rooms, including the Octagon room, was added to the gallery.

When did the National Gallery start opening on Sundays?

The National Gallery started opening on Sundays in 1896.

How many paintings were removed from the gallery during World War I?

During World War I, 675 paintings were removed from the gallery for safekeeping.

When did the gallery appoint its first Scientific Advisor?

The gallery appointed its first Scientific Advisor in 1934.

What significant change occurred in 1974 regarding the gallery's educational outreach?

In 1974, the gallery formed the country's first learning program dedicated to schools.

Who opened the Sainsbury Wing in 1991, which expanded the gallery?

Her Majesty the Queen opened the Sainsbury Wing in 1991, which expanded the gallery.

What is the role of the director of the National Gallery as mentioned in the script?

The director of the National Gallery, Gabriele Finaldi, invites people to be part of the gallery's ongoing story and aims to share the legacy of the people's gallery.