The National Portrait Gallery has unveiled a groundbreaking exhibition showcasing the rare vintage prints of two iconic photographers: Francesca Woodman and Julia Margaret Cameron. Titled “Portraits to Dream In,” this immersive experience invites viewers to delve into the ethereal realms of Woodman and Cameron’s photographic visions, challenging conventional biographical narratives to explore the profound thematic resonances between their works.
From March 21 to June 16, 2024, visitors will be transported through time as they encounter over 160 vintage prints meticulously curated from galleries, museums, and private collections worldwide. Featuring 96 works by Woodman and 71 by Cameron, the exhibition offers a panoramic view of their enduring legacies, revealing the profound intersections of appearance, identity, and storytelling that define their oeuvres.
Departing from traditional approaches to understanding the artists, “Portraits to Dream In” foregrounds the tangible presence of the physical print, illuminating Woodman and Cameron’s shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of photographic image-making. Themes such as declaring intentions, exploring gender archetypes, and depicting otherworldly beings converge to create a dreamscape where reality blurs with myth, inviting viewers to wander through the enchanting landscapes of the artists’ imaginations.
A highlight of the exhibition is the unveiling of Francesca Woodman’s artist’s books, previously unseen in the UK, offering a glimpse into her multifaceted creative process. Alongside Cameron’s iconic portraits, including her celebrated depictions of Victorian luminaries and mythological figures, Woodman’s introspective self-portraits and experimental caryatid series beckon viewers into a realm of introspection and wonder.
Through meticulous curation and extensive research, the exhibition presents a dynamic dialogue between Woodman and Cameron, inviting viewers to contemplate the enduring relevance of their artistic visions. As Dr. Nicholas Cullinan, Director of the National Portrait Gallery, notes, the exhibition offers a “contemporary and timeless” perspective on the two pioneering photographers, underscoring their profound impact on the history of Photography.
Accompanied by an insightful publication authored by curator Magdalene Keaney, “Portraits to Dream In” promises to be a transformative journey into the visionary realms of Francesca Woodman and Julia Margaret Cameron, reaffirming their status as luminaries of the photographic medium.
Top Photo: P C Robinson @Artlyst 2024
Portraits to Dream In: Francesca Woodman and Julia Margaret Cameron – 21 March – 16 June 2024 National Portrait Gallery