Articles

Bill Viola

Bill Viola, Fire Angel

RA Exhibitions

< 4 years ago

What would Michelangelo make of Bill Viola?

With the work of contemporary artist Bill Viola on show alongside works by Michelangelo, the exhibition’s co-curator imagines what the Renaissance master might have had to say about it, in a fictional letter to his nephew…

RA Exhibitions

4 years ago

“There’s more than just the surface of life… the real thing is underneath” – Bill Viola

For video artist Bill Viola, water is a powerful and recurring theme, and one that’s central to our landmark exhibition, ‘Bill Viola / Michelangelo: Life, Death, Rebirth’. In this interview, the artist traces this back to a formative incident in his childhood.

RA Exhibitions

4 years ago

A beginner’s guide to Bill Viola

Bill Viola is considered one of the most important artists of his generation. As the RA prepares to show his vast, immersive installations alongside works by Michelangelo, it’s time to brush up on your knowledge of this American video art pioneer.
Bill Viola, Nantes Triptych

RA Exhibitions

4 years ago

Bill Viola / Michelangelo: scenes from the extremities of life

We asked four writers to respond to key themes in ‘Bill Viola / Michelangelo’. On the subject of birth, art historian Ingrid Rowland reveals how both artists confront the particular and the universal in the cycle of life.
Helene Schjerfbeck, Self-Portrait, Black Background (detail)

RA Exhibitions

> 4 years ago

Introducing our 2019 exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Arts

From the genius of the Renaissance to immersive new work created specially for our galleries, next year’s exhibitions promise to exhilarate and inspire. The RA’s Artistic Director, Tim Marlow, introduces our packed programme for 2019.

Cy Twombly, Quattro Stagioni: Autunno, from Quattro Stagioni (A Painting in Four Parts)

RA Recommends

> 7 years ago

Our pick of this week’s art events: 22 – 28 October

From monumental abstract painting on the Sussex coast to meditative sonic art in a Soho basement, we guide you through the must-see exhibitions in the UK this week.
Bill Viola

Opinion

> 8 years ago

Inside Story: Bill Viola

The pioneering video artist talks to Laura Gascoigne about mystery, compassion and sacrifice in art, as the first of his two altarpieces commissioned by St Paul’s Cathedral goes on permanent display.