In 2012 Outset supported Seduced by Art: Photography Past & Present at the National Gallery, London. The exhibition explored early photography from the mid-19th century and the most exciting contemporary photographs, alongside historical painting. It took a provocative look at how photographers use fine art traditions, including Old Master painting, to explore and justify the possibilities of their art. Work by leading photographers such as Martin Parr, Jeff Wall, Craigie Horsfield, Sam Taylor-Wood, Richard Billingham, Julia Margaret Cameron, Tina Barney and Gustave Le Gray was on display beside key paintings from the National Gallery collection.
Drawing attention to one particular and rich strand of photography’s history – that of the influence and inspiration of historical painting – the exhibition featured pictures by the greatest British and French photographers alongside work by an international array of contemporary artists. It included new photography and video specially commissioned for the exhibition and on public display for the first time, plus works rarely seen in the UK.
Outset’s support was directed towards the education and interpretation element of the exhibition, providing the National Gallery with the chance to put on a range of innovative and interactive activities, the majority of which was free to all participants, particularly a young audience. Activities included talks and lectures, family workshops, free exhibition guides and a short film series.
ON VIEW: 31st October 2012 – 20th January 2013
