An exploration into the extraordinary life of Peggy Guggenheim, the 20th-century self-proclaimed ‘art addict’.
Some of the greatest works from one of the most impressive modern art collections of the 20th century will be displayed in Petersfield this summer, marking the return to Hampshire of one of art’s most famous names.
Although synonymous with great cities such as New York, Bilbao and Venice, but less so with an historic market town in Hampshire. However, an exhibition opening in the summer of 2024 is aiming to change that. Before buying the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni and the garden behind it in Venice in 1949, for five years (between 1934 and 1939), world-famous 20th-century patron and collector of modern art Peggy Guggenheim (1898-1979) lived at Yew Tree Cottage near Petersfield.
Now, 15 works and archival material from the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and other UK collections will be on display in the recently renovated galleries of Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, charting the range of modern paintings, drawings and sculpture that the self-styled “art addict” either once owned, or by artists she collected or showed.
Showcasing artists such as Henry Moore (1898-1986), Yves Tanguy (1900-1955), Max Ernst (1891-1976), Jean Arp (1886-1966) and John Tunnard (1900-1971), alongside fashion and photographs including those by Lee Miller (1907-1977), Peggy Guggenheim: Petersfield to Palazzo will give visitors an extraordinary insight into a life lived in pursuit and celebration of art.
Exploring the literary, artistic, and intellectual figures with whom Guggenheim interacted, the fascinating untold story of her life in the town and neighbouring West Sussex will be revealed detailing this early chapter in her career to discover and champion so many world-renowned artists. The exhibition includes loans from the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice – whose Director, Karole P. B. Vail, is Peggy Guggenheim’s elder granddaughter. Other lenders include Tate, The Hepworth Wakefield, Farleys House & Gallery, National Trust, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery and more.
This exhibition that adds a new chapter to a remarkable life. It is a life and career that incorporates the greatest artists of the 20th century and resulted in one of the finest collections of modern art which will continue to be enjoyed by present and future generations.
Further Information: Peggy Guggenheim: Petersfield to Palazzo