The Best of British Museum: A Look at the Last Decades in London
Michelangelo (1475-1564) poses a unique challenge for exhibition curators due to the scarcity, incompletion, and sheer scale of his works. The focus on his later years, marked by his return to Rome and major projects for the popes, presents an additional hurdle. With immovable masterpieces like “The Last Judgement” in the Sistine Chapel, curators must rely on smaller-scale gems and rich contextualization to showcase Michelangelo’s late achievements.
The exhibition at the British Museum centers around the stellar collection of drawings, supplemented by loans from other institutions, offering insight into the social and political milieu of the time. Michelangelo’s spiritual introspection, in the backdrop of the religious upheaval of the era, is a central theme explored through his letters, poems, and collaborations with fellow artists.
While the exhibition may lack grand theatrics, it excels in showcasing Michelangelo’s technical prowess and creative process through an array of drawings, including iconic pieces like “The Punishment of Tityus.” The exhibition delves into Michelangelo’s religious fervor, his friendship with Vittoria Colonna, and the profound impact of his faith on his artistic output.
Critics have shared mixed reviews of the exhibition, with some lauding its spiritual depth while others finding it ponderous. Despite its shortcomings, “Michelangelo: the Last Decades” at the British Museum provides a comprehensive overview of the master’s late works and offers audiences a glimpse into the mind of one of Europe’s greatest artists.
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Leonie Schultz completed her studies in Digital Media and Design at the Berlin University of the Arts. She focuses on digital installations and interactive art, often incorporating elements of sound and light to create immersive experiences. Leonie has been involved in several digital art festivals and is known for her innovative approach to storytelling through technology.