Francesca Woodman and Julia Margaret Cameron: Portraits to Dream In | National Portrait Gallery
Julia Margaret Cameron, The Dream (Mary Hillier). Courtesy of Wilson Centre for Photography; Francesca Woodman, Untitled. Courtesy of Woodman Family Foundation.
Written by Aundréa Verdi
Francesca Woodman and Julia Margaret Cameron: Portraits to Dream In is an extraordinary exhibition that masterfully intertwines the creative legacies of two iconic female photographers separated by a century but united in their profound exploration of portraiture. With over 160 rare vintage prints on display until June 16th, this showcase at the National Portrait Gallery not only presents the remarkable works of these two artists but also offers a fresh perspective on their contributions to the evolution of photographic portraiture.
The juxtaposition of Julia Margaret Cameron's Victorian-era portraiture and Francesca Woodman's enigmatic self-portraits from the 1970s creates a captivating dialogue that reveals their contrasting and shared artistic sensibilities. Despite their differing backgrounds and respective technological limitations, both photographers used their creativity to transcend mere representation and delve into themes of allure, symbolism, and self-expression.
Julia Margaret Cameron, Annie (My very first success in Photography). Courtesy of National Science and Media Museum/ Science & Society Picture Library. Francesca Woodman, Self Portrait at Thirteen. Courtesy of the Woodman Family Foundation.
Cameron, a self-taught photographer who embraced the medium later in life, utilized cumbersome equipment and intricate darkroom processes to create ethereal portraits infused with religious iconography and influences from classical antiquity. In contrast, Woodman, a prodigious talent who tragically passed away at the age of 22, employed medium-format cameras, which were popular in the 1970s, and experimental techniques to craft evocative self-portraits that blur the lines between reality and fantasy.
The exhibition's thematic organization provides insight into the diverse explorations of both artists. From the early portraits that signaled their artistic journeys to thematic sections that delve into dreams, gender, and otherworldly beings, viewers are invited to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of imagery crafted by Cameron and Woodman.
One of the exhibition's highlights is the examination of their shared interest in the use of angels. Cameron's angelic figures exude grace and serenity, drawing inspiration from religious and mythological sources, while Woodman's interpretations are imbued with raw energy, capturing moments of ecstatic emotion and introspection.
Julia Margaret Cameron, I Wait (Rachel Gurney). Courtesy of the J. Paul Getty Museum. Francesca Woodman, Untitled, from 'Angel’s' series. Courtesy of Woodman Family Foundation.
Throughout the exhibition, the contrast between Cameron's composed, meticulously staged portraits and Woodman's experimental, introspective self-portraits is striking and thought-provoking. While Cameron's work exudes a sense of classical beauty and allegorical richness, Woodman's images are characterized by their mysterious, reflective nature, inviting viewers to ponder the complexities of self-representation and identity.
The exhibition also pays tribute to Woodman's tragically short-lived career, highlighting the intensity and creativity she brought to her art before her untimely death. Her works serve as poignant reminders of her prodigious talent and the impact of her artistic vision.
Francesca Woodman and Julia Margaret Cameron: Portraits to Dream In is a testament to the enduring legacy of two visionary female photographers who defied conventions and pushed the boundaries of their medium. Combining their works in a single exhibition, the National Portrait Gallery offers viewers a rare opportunity to explore the interconnectedness of their creative visions and the timeless themes they explored through their art.
Julia Margaret Cameron, Sadness (Ellen Terry). Courtesy of J. Paul Getty Museum. Francesca Woodman, Polka Dots #5. Courtesy of the Woodman Family Foundation.
