Please note:

• For the best experience and to ensure entry at your preferred time, book ahead.
• Friends of the RA can visit this exhibition for free between 6-9pm on the first Friday of the month (exclusive to Friends, last entry 8.20pm).
• Download our large print guide.

Many of James McNeill Whistler’s works feature the red-haired figure of Joanna Hiffernan. Her close professional and personal relationship with the artist lasted for two decades, yet little about her role or influence in his life has been explored – until now.

Today considered one of the best-known names of the late 19th-century Aesthetic Movement, Whistler moved to London as a young painter hoping to forge his reputation. It was here that he met Joanna Hiffernan, an Irish model who would become his muse, confidante and more.

In this exhibition, we uncover the role Joanna played in the artist’s career and discover how Whistler’s revolutionary paintings featuring Hiffernan went on to influence other artists from the Pre-Raphaelites to Klimt.

This exhibition is organised by the Royal Academy of Arts, London and by the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Our Friends preview days take place on Thursday 24 February, 10am-6pm, and Friday 25 February, 10am-9pm.