WHAT? Rubens & Women 

WHERE? Dulwich Picture Gallery, London SE21 7AD

WHEN? Now until 28th January 

WHY GO?  To celebrate body positivity.  Rubenesque!  The very word conjures up images of curvaceous nudes in saintly poses. Yes, Flemish artist Rubens certainly did paint nudes a plenty, but he also painted richly dressed women of all shapes and sizes, and this beautiful exhibition swerves stereotypes to focus on his sincere appreciation for women full-stop.

From his own family to wealthy patrons, plus the religious saints that reflected his unswerving Catholicism, he was dedicated to placing women on a pedestal. 

How his sitters, mostly family and friends, must have endured hours of keeping their saintly poses for images of the Virgin Mary or Saint Catherine is nothing short of a miracle itself. 

It’s recorded that Rubens painted more portraits of his wives (there were two) and children than any other Baroque artist of the time.

One of the most intimate paintings portrays his own daughter Clara Serena and is even more personal, as we learn that she died just before her thirteen birthday when he finished the painting.

From the ruffles and lace collars of rich noblewomen to the curves and pious faces of saints and martyrs, this stunning Rubens exhibition highlights some of his most famous paintings in the intimate setting of this glorious little gallery.

IN THE KNOW Try your hand at figure drawing, Rubens Life Drawing with Luisa MacCormack is a one-day workshop on Saturday 27th January. Who knows, you may have hidden talents.  

Fine artist MacCormack is a London Drawing Group tutor majoring in art history. 

Admission to Rubens & Women is included in the price of the workshop.