Art gallery to recreate exhibition from 1907

An art gallery is preparing to recreate an exhibition that originally took place 117 years ago, showcasing the remarkable works of a pioneering female artist named Evelyn De Morgan. This exciting exhibition will be held at the Wolverhampton Art Gallery starting in October and will feature a total of thirty pieces, including paintings, drawings, and sketches created by De Morgan. One of her notable works, titled 'Mercy and Truth have Met, Peace and Righteousness have Kissed,' depicts four figures, with two of them kissing on the left side of the artwork. In the center, a crowned figure stands proudly, while another figure raises her hand in a gesture of significance. The gallery has emphasized that this exhibition is particularly special because it was incredibly rare for a gallery to dedicate an entire show to a solo female artist back in 1907 when De Morgan's work was first displayed. The upcoming exhibition has been carefully curated to closely resemble the original, ensuring that visitors can experience the art as it was intended. The display will include not only oil paintings but also a plaster cast sculpture, sketches, and drawings. Additionally, newly-painted artworks will recreate three of De Morgan's original pieces that were tragically lost in a fire in 1991. One of the recreated paintings features the prophetess Cassandra, who is depicted in bright blue robes, expressing her fury as the events of the siege of Troy unfold around her, with a small Trojan Horse visible across the river. De Morgan was one of the few women to be part of the Pre-Raphaelite 'brotherhood' during a time when it was challenging for women to pursue careers as professional artists. Local artist Paul Francis-Walker has taken on the task of recreating the missing works and expressed that it was a 'great honour' to be asked to replicate De Morgan's art. He shared his belief that Evelyn was a strong advocate for the idea of life after death and that through a medium, people could communicate with those who have passed away. He hopes that his artwork will allow viewers to reconnect with the lost pieces of De Morgan's legacy. Jean McMeakin, the chair of the De Morgan Trustee Board, expressed her delight in bringing this exhibition to Wolverhampton. She stated, 'The exhibition not only illuminates her talent, her inspirations and her influences but in so doing, her inner thoughts, social and ethical values are also revealed. ' The exhibition, titled 'Painted Dreams: The Art of Evelyn De Morgan,' will be on display at the Wolverhampton Art Gallery from October 19 to March 9, inviting art enthusiasts and the public to explore the rich history and significance of De Morgan's work.