Adam and Arabella, Canaletto, 2010

Inspired by Canaletto, A View of Somerset House, c. 1746-55.

We chose this drawing, as there were many different elements in the image, which had the potential to animate. It also interested us due to its location and the change we had noticed to Somerset House over time. Our aim was to bring colour and life to Canaletto’s drawing.

From researching the history of both Canaletto and the history of the time we discovered how the artist’s Italian nationality influenced this drawing. For example, the composition of this image was very similar to his drawings of Venice. We decided to use colour gradually in our animation to portray the Italian use of colour in artwork during this period. This drawing shows how Canaletto was an influence to many other artists in Britain and beyond.

Inspired by:

Canaletto, View from Somerset Gardens looking towards London Bridge, c. 1746-55

Canaletto, View from Somerset Gardens looking towards London Bridge, c. 1746-55

In 1746 Canaletto travelled to England and over the following decade produced a rich record of mid-Georgian London. In this elaborately finished work, drawn as a collector’s item, the city of London is seen from above the terrace of Old Somerset House, designed by Inigo Jones in the 1630s. Stairs lead to the Thames, thronging with river traffic. In the far distance stands Old London Bridge, while St. Paul’s cathedral towers above a skyline dotted with church spires.