In the Flesh: The Nude in Art, Past and Present

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Michael Morris, “Man and Mirror (detail),” 1983

pastel and watercolour on paper (gift of Rosita Tovell, AGGV 2004.039.007)

In The Flesh brings together more than one hundred works that share a common focus: the nude as a subject for artistic expression. Drawing upon the strengths of the AGGV Collections, works by renowned historical artists including Renoir, Rodin, Picasso and Henry Moore are brought together alongside works by modern and contemporary Indigenous and Canadian artists, including Pat Martin Bates, Ivan Eyre, Evergon, Michael Morris, Susan Point and Carole Sabiston.

The AGGV is especially proud to present new work made by Andrew Moncrief, an artist originally from Vancouver Island who is currently living and exhibiting in Berlin, Germany.

At varying times beautiful, sensual, intimate and provocative, the works presented in this exhibition trace our captivation with the human form from the Renaissance to today. Visitors will experience a visual journey through time, ranging from the classical and literary subjects of the past to the body and gender politics of the present.

The meaning of the exhibition title, In the Flesh, is twofold: it refers both to the naked human form as well as to the importance of experiencing things in real life, of viewing art that is physically in front of you. The latter meaning comes from a practice that the AGGV is currently embracing: to highlight treasures from the permanent collection and to create opportunities for our communities to experience great art In the Flesh.

This exhibition is presented with the generous support of the Gallery Associates.

Curated by Steven McNeil, Chief Curator & Director of Collections and Exhibitions