ART-LOVERS can meet Rembrandt in south Warwickshire this summer.
A masterpiece self-portrait by Rembrandt van Rijn is taking its final spotlight at Upton House and Gardens, from today until November 8, following a year-long nationwide tour, before returning to its permanent home at Buckland Abbey in Devon.
The National Trust is inviting visitors to slow down and reconnect – with themselves and with art – through one of its most celebrated paintings – Self-portrait wearing a Feathered Bonnet by the Dutch master.
As part of the ‘Meet Reembrandt’ initiative to encourage new ways of engaging with paintings, it is hoped visitors will discover the mental health benefits of “slow looking” at art, which include helping deal with the demands of a busy world
Several recent studies have shown that exploring art and heritage has the potential to improve people’s mental health. The benefits can include helping to escape the mental trappings of day-to-day living, reduce stress, foster emotional resilience, and even spark feelings of inspiration and enlightenment.
While the mental health benefits of being in nature are widely known, the National Trust is encouraging people to discover how art and heritage can offer similar restorative effects.
The average museum or gallery visitor spends just eight seconds looking at each artwork. The trust is challenging that norm by offering seating and audio guides with meditative prompts that encourage viewers to linger with Rembrandt’s masterpiece. The painting will be shown with room to allow people to focus on the work on its own, allowing space for uninterrupted contemplation.
National Trust curator Amy Orrock said: “Slow looking is about more than just taking your time. It’s a way of being present, of noticing the details and the emotions they generate that might otherwise pass us by. You’re not just seeing – you’re feeling, thinking, connecting.”
“This self-portrait is the perfect companion for a slow looking experience. It invites you to look closer, to wonder what Rembrandt was contemplating, and maybe to reflect on your own state of mind.”
The painting itself has a remarkable story. Once thought to be the work of a follower, it was reattributed to Rembrandt himself after extensive conservation and scientific analysis in 2013. It is now recognised as one of the great treasures of the National Trust’s collection.
Rembrandt created around 80 self-portraits throughout his career, each giving a different insight into his character. In this picture he cuts a swaggering figure, with hand on hip, elaborate costume and hat. But there is also something tentative about the way he looks back at the viewer, and shadow across his face gives a mysterious feel.
Visitors will have the option to explore the painting’s history through audio guides featuring insights from conservators, art historians, and even imagined reflections from Rembrandt himself, or to simply sit quietly and enjoy spending time with a masterpiece.
Michelle Leake, property curator at Upton House, said: “When Lord Bearsted renovated the house to display his art collection, he created spaces designed for close looking and enjoying art for art’s sake. It therefore feels especially fitting for the property to be hosting this wonderful slow looking experience.”
Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for full details.
