Exhibition on Screen Documentary on James McNeill Whistler Ties In With Tate Britain Show
A new documentary from Exhibition on Screen highlights the life of James McNeill Whistler, timed to coincide with the Tate Britain exhibition that concludes at the end of September. This film juxtaposes the artist's notorious scandals with the delicate brilliance of his artwork, exploring the complexities of a figure who elicits mixed opinions. While Whistler's Mother is widely recognized, he is perhaps more famously known for winning a farthing in damages in his libel case against John Ruskin, who accused him of "flinging a pot of paint" at the public. Featuring insights from notable figures like Carol Jacobi, Rachel Campbell-Johnston, and Stephen Calloway, the documentary delves into Whistler's carefully crafted public persona while effectively detailing his life and artistic contributions.
Key facts
- The Exhibition on Screen documentary focuses on James McNeill Whistler.
- It was timed to coincide with Tate Britain's gallery show.
- The Tate Britain exhibition closes at the end of September.
- Whistler won a farthing in damages in his libel action against John Ruskin.
- The libel case stemmed from Ruskin's "flinging a pot of paint" accusation.
- Interviewees include Tate's Carol Jacobi, critic Rachel Campbell-Johnston and art historian Stephen Calloway.
- The film balances Whistler's scandals with the subtle brilliance of his art.
- Whistler's Mother remains among his best-known works.
Entities
Artists
- James McNeill Whistler
- John Ruskin
- Carol Jacobi
- Rachel Campbell-Johnston
- Stephen Calloway
- Anna McNeill Whistler
- Walter Pater
- Oscar Wilde
Institutions
- Tate Britain
- Exhibition on Screen
- The Guardian
- Musée d'Orsay
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom