Stanley Spencer Heaven in a Hell of War Review
Stanley Spencer:
Heaven in a Hell of War
Somerset House, London
7 November 2013 – 26 January 2014
Reviewed by Christine Charlesworth
On Wednesday 20 November I visited Somerset House to see the poignant scenes recollected by Stanley Spencer of his experiences in the First World War. These paintings took over six years to create and were considered by many to be the artist’s finest achievement.
In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War it is extremely fitting that these works should be shown, for the first time, outside the Sandham Memorial Chapel, which was built to house them. In fact Spencer once said that he hoped that these paintings would be shown at an exhibition in London to perhaps bring him more work and further recognition and certainly this exhibition will help with the latter, if a little late.
Spencer was considered to be one of Britain’s most important war artists and was a key figure in the development of figurative art in 20th century Britain. Painted from his own wartime experiences and recollections his paintings focus on the domestic rather than the combative. This exhibition gives us the opportunity to look closely at his accomplished paintwork and sensitive use of colour.
There is a film showing Spencer talking about his paintings in the chapel and we are able to see a detailed projection of the altar- piece painting, which cannot be removed from the chapel. The exhibition also includes preparatory sketches by Spencer and paintings by his friend and contemporary, Henry Lamb.
A lovely exhibition.
Free entry.
Rating: 5/5 
For more information and opening times click here.
