”His images arrive straight through the nervous system and hijack the soul”-The Times, UK

Francis Bacon is a towering figure of 20th-century art. His paintings are gutsy, controversial and unforgettable.Surveying his life and work, this is the first major exhibition in Australia of rare works by the master of post-war British art.

Francis Bacon was renowned for pushing the boundaries of what was socially acceptable.  At a time when homosexuality was illegal in Britain, his work openly celebrated the male form and often depicted his lovers.

Over fifty rare paintings are shown in this exhibition with works from 37 collections including the Tate London, Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art, New York. The paintings are shown alongside archival material from his chaotic London studio, offering a fascinating insight into the artist and his creative process.

Accompanying the exhibition is a free film series covering topics such as the de-criminalisation of homosexuality and the growing depiction of British gay life in film.

Showing now until 24 February

Book now: artgallery.nsw.gov.au