Antony Gormley featured in major exhibition on the art and imagery of Saint Francis of Assisi The National Gallery, London

The first major art exhibition in the UK to explore the life and legacy of Saint Francis of Assisi (1182–1226), one of history’s most inspirational and revered figures, is currently on display at the National Gallery in London until 30 July 2023.

Presenting the art and imagery of Saint Francis (1182–1226) from the 13th century to today, the exhibition looks at why the saint is a figure of such enormous relevance to our time due to his spiritual radicalism, commitment to the poor, and love of God and nature, as well as his powerful appeals for peace, and openness to dialogue with other religions.

From some of the earliest medieval panels, relics and manuscripts to modern-day films and a Marvel comic, the exhibition shines a light on how Saint Francis has captured the imagination of artists through the centuries, and how his appeal has transcended generations, continents and different religious traditions.

It brings together paintings from the National Gallery Collection by Sassetta, Botticelli, and Zurbarán with international loans including works by Caravaggio, Josefa de Óbidos, Stanley Spencer, Antony Gormley, Giuseppe Penone, Andrea Büttner, and an exciting new commission from Richard Long.

This exhibition is curated by Gabriele Finaldi, Director of the National Gallery and Joost Joustra, the Ahmanson Research Associate Curator in Art and Religion at the National Gallery.