This November, the Delaware Art Museum will host Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber for an event focused on his interest in British Pre-Raphaelite art. The composer, known internationally for musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera and Cats, is also recognized for his extensive collection and advocacy of Pre-Raphaelite works.
Lord Lloyd Webber’s collection is considered one of the largest and most significant of its kind. His efforts have helped bring attention to the artists who led this 19th-century movement, which was marked by vivid colors and a move away from traditional Victorian artistic ideals.
Dr. Sophie Lynford, Annette Woolard-Provine Curator of the Bancroft Collection of Pre-Raphaelite Art at the museum, commented on their shared interests: “During his visit to DelArt this spring, Lord Lloyd Webber and I discussed the numerous connections between works in his collection and our own,” said Dr. Lynford. “Since then, our Pre-Raphaelite-loving community has been clamoring to learn more. On November 10, audiences will be treated to the celebrated composer’s Pre-Raphaelite ‘origin story,’ how he came to collect Pre-Raphaelite art, and his long commitment to championing Victorian culture.”
The Delaware Art Museum holds what it describes as the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite art outside the United Kingdom. Its holdings include works by artists such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Edward Burne-Jones, and John Everett Millais.
The upcoming program will feature a conversation between Lord Lloyd Webber and Dr. Lynford along with a cocktail reception. Proceeds from this benefit event will support exhibitions, education programs, and community initiatives at the museum.
Founded in 1912 in honor of illustrator Howard Pyle, the Delaware Art Museum houses over 13,000 works spanning historical and contemporary art. Its campus includes galleries, a sculpture garden covering six acres, a labyrinth, and spaces for events.
More information about An Evening with Andrew Lloyd Webber can be found at delart.org/andrew-lloyd-webber.
