Insights

The Holburne Museum in Bath is currently hosting an exhibition that juxtaposes the works of Paula Rego and Francisco Goya, highlighting the artistic influence Goya had on Rego. This exhibition, titled Uncanny Visions, features Goya's enigmatic etchings known as the Follies, which are displayed alongside Rego's paintings. The pairing of these two artists invites viewers to explore themes of the uncanny, a concept defined by Freud as the return of the familiar in a frightening context. Rego, who passed away recently, often acknowledged her artistic debt to Goya, making this exhibition a significant tribute to her legacy. The exhibition aims to provoke thought and evoke emotions, encouraging visitors to confront unsettling fantasies and memories. The artworks are designed to challenge perceptions and stimulate the imagination, creating an atmosphere where the familiar becomes strange. This dialogue between the two artists serves to deepen the understanding of their respective works and the psychological undercurrents that run through them. By placing Rego's contemporary interpretations alongside Goya's historical pieces, the exhibition fosters a creative dialogue that transcends time. It allows audiences to appreciate the continuity of artistic expression and the ways in which past influences shape modern art. The Holburne Museum's initiative not only honors Rego's contributions to the art world but also reaffirms Goya's enduring impact on contemporary artists. Overall, Uncanny Visions at the Holburne Museum is a thought-provoking exhibition that invites viewers to engage with the complexities of art, memory, and the human experience, ultimately leaving a lasting impression on all who attend.