Title

Grotesque: The diabolical and fantastic in art.

Venues

National Gallery Of Victoria: International. (18 December 2004 – 8 May 2005)

Date

(2004 – 2005)

Summary

Multi-artist exhibition. Located: Australia (VIC). Prints, Drawings

Documentation

Catalogue

Web address

http://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/grotesque/

Country of context

Australia

Abstract

“Fantasy deserted by reason produces impossible monsters: united with it, fantasy is the mother of the arts and the source of their wonders.” Goya, c.1799

Devils, monsters and mythological creatures have featured strongly in artistic imagery throughout the ages. They have been used to give expression to religious beliefs, cultural anxieties and literary subjects, and have provided fertile ground for artists’ imaginings. This exhibition draws upon the NGV’s rich collection of prints, drawings and illustrated books to explore the ways in which European artists have given expression to the monstrous, the diabolical and the fantastic from the 15th to the 21st centuries. [NGV media]