Originally the residence of Sir John Soane, one of Britain’s most influential architects, Pitzhanger Manor has now undergone significant redevelopment and has been opened to the public in its modern format, as a premier forum for creativity, debate, and participation.
Reanimating Soane’s vision to enrich communities with art, architecture, and design, Pitzhanger unites the historical architectural marvels with the newly-founded Gallery to offer a fully-rounded cultural experience like no other.
The initial Pitzhanger is an astounding work of 19th century architecture, featuring then-ubiquitous neo-classical elements with an attention to the use of light and space, though his vision became watered down over the decades with various renovations as the site changed hands. The Manor has now been revitalised to include Soane’s original blueprints, its unique architecture faithfully restored for the public to enjoy.
The Gallery, housed in the 1939 library building, has been amended to allow space for contemporary artists, architects, designers, and more. The featured artists honour, reference, and indulge in Soane’s legacy, in special and surprising fashions.
Grayson Perry’s recent exhibition, for example, presents sets of behemothic satirical tapestries that act as modern reimagining’s of William Hogarth’s A Rake of Progress, itself also a series of satirical paintings. These original works of Hogarth were purchased by Soane’s wife 222 years ago to be displayed at Pitzhanger, the engravings of which are actually still on display in the drawing room. Attendees are able to compare and contrasts the original works with Perry’s modern retakes. Talk about full circle.
There are few better spots in the country to take in fascinating histories of architecture and modern tales in art than in Pitzhanger Museum and Gallery. Where old meets new to make something better than either.
Details
- Address:
- Pitzhanger Manor and Gallery
- W5 5EQ
- Transport:
- Ealing Station