The National Gallery’s NG Stories exhibition commemorates 200 years with a focus on Myra Hess’s wartime concerts that uplifted Londoners. Utilizing rich archival materials, the exhibition reflects on the role of individuals associated with the gallery. The concerts, crucial for maintaining morale during the Blitz, showcased prominent classical works and attracted large audiences, marking a profound cultural initiative amidst the challenges of war. The exhibit runs until January 12, 2025.
The National Gallery is celebrating its 200th anniversary with the NG Stories exhibition, which revives the legendary wartime concerts by pianist Dame Myra Hess that uplifted wartime Londoners. This immersive, free digital experience showcases rich archival material depicting individuals associated with the gallery, including former staff and their contributions during the Second World War. Dame Myra Hess, who launched the concerts to counter the cultural vacuum left by the war, approached gallery director Sir Kenneth Clark for permission to use the gallery as a concert venue. The concerts commenced on October 10, 1939, offering a range of classical music for a modest ticket fee, and soon attracted an audience of around 1,000 on the opening day. Despite the wartime dangers, including proximity to bombings, the concerts continued for over six years, drawing in 750,000 people and featuring renowned composers’ works. Hess’s initiative was pivotal in maintaining morale during the Blitz, leading to a celebrated legacy that persists in annual memorial events today. The NG Stories exhibit runs until January 12, 2025, providing insights into the gallery’s rich historical tapestry and its vital role during wartime.
The exhibitions marking the National Gallery’s bicentennial reflect the profound impact of the arts on community morale during crisis periods. During the Second World War, when cultural institutions were threatened, the gallery became a venue for free concerts, which played a crucial role in providing solace and inspiration. Myra Hess’s concerts exemplified how the arts can flourish even amidst adversity, attracting diverse audiences and fostering a sense of togetherness.
The NG Stories exhibition at the National Gallery commemorates the resilience of artists like Myra Hess, who leveraged art as a source of strength during the war. The immersive experience not only celebrates the gallery’s history but also emphasises the importance of cultural continuity in times of crisis. This celebration of the past is significant, preserving and sharing the stories of those who contributed to keeping the spirit of music alive during dark times.
Original Source: www.hamhigh.co.uk