Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art facts for kids
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| Location | 39A Canonbury Square, Islington, London N1 |
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The Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art is a special museum in Canonbury Square in Islington, a part of London, England. It is the only art gallery in the United Kingdom that focuses entirely on modern Italian art. It is also a registered charity, meaning it works for the public good.
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How the Estorick Collection Began
The Estorick Collection was started by an American writer and researcher named Eric Estorick (1913–1993). He began collecting art after he moved to England following the Second World War.
A Honeymoon Discovery
In 1947, Eric and his wife, Salome (1920–1989), were on their honeymoon. They found a book by an artist named Umberto Boccioni about a style of art called Futurism. This discovery sparked their interest in Italian art. Before their trip ended, they visited another Futurist artist, Mario Sironi, in Milan. They bought many artworks from his studio, including hundreds of drawings.
Building the Collection
The Estoricks collected most of their art between 1953 and 1958. Their collection was shown in several temporary art shows, including one at the famous Tate Gallery in London in 1956. Some of their most important artworks were even loaned to the Tate for many years, from 1966 to 1975.
Eric and Salome Estorick received offers to buy their collection from the Italian government and museums in other countries. However, they decided not to sell. Instead, about six months before he passed away, Eric Estorick created the Eric and Salome Estorick Foundation. He then gave all his Italian artworks to this foundation.
The Museum's Home
The Estorick Collection moved into its current home, Northampton Lodge, in 1998. This building was once the home and office of Sir Basil Spence, a famous British architect. It is a converted Grade II-listed Georgian house, which means it is a historic building protected by law. The project to create the museum was supported by money from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
What Art You Can See
The main focus of the Estorick Collection is its Futurist artworks. Futurism was an exciting art movement that started in Italy. The museum also displays other Italian art and sculptures from the years 1890 to the 1950s.
Famous Artists on Display
You can see paintings by the main artists of the Futurist movement, including Giacomo Balla, Umberto Boccioni, Carlo Carrà, Gino Severini, Luigi Russolo, and Ardengo Soffici. The collection also features works by other important Italian artists like Giorgio de Chirico, Amedeo Modigliani, Giorgio Morandi, Mario Sironi, and Marino Marini.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Estorick Collection often hosts special temporary exhibitions. This means there's always something new and interesting to see!
