George Frederic Watts OM RA (1817-1904) was one of the most important artists of the Victorian age. Watts Gallery is unique as a purpose-built Gallery for a single professional artist. G F Watts: Victorian Visionary considers the importance of both.
Historian Tristram Hunt explores the life of the artist and the genesis of the Gallery. In a revealing interview, acclaimed contemporary artist, Antony Gormley speaks of his admiration for Watts as a pioneering Modern sculptor whilst playwright Patrick Marber praises a memorial to ordinary heroes, established by Watts, that influenced
his play and subsequent film Closer (starring Julia Roberts, Jude Law).
Sandy Nairne, Director of the National Portrait Gallery recognises the significance of Watts’s portraits of eminent Victorians and Watts Gallery Curator, Mark Bills, discusses the unique place the artist holds in Victorian art. Veronica Franklin Gould, Watts’s biographer, considers his relationships with women.
G F Watts: Victorian Visionary confirms Watts’s place at the centre of the Victorian art world, his relevance today and the importance of Watts Gallery in celebrating his achievements.
Featuring interviews with Antony Gormley, Sandy Nairne, Patrick Marber, Mark Bills and Veronica Franklin Gould.
Directed by Richard Fawkes
Presented by Tristram Hunt
Produced by Take One Productions
Includes two versions of the film:
24 minute and 7 minute
Multi-region
