Developed by writer, curator and leading Eric Ravilious scholar James Russell, the exhibition examines the enduring influence of the South Downs and other chalk landscapes on a generation of artists working between the 1910s and the 1940s.

Featuring paintings, drawings, prints and archival material, the exhibition traces how these artists transformed the tradition of landscape painting for a modern era. More than simply idyllic settings, the chalk landscapes became sites where ideas of history, identity and belonging were explored in response to mounting political tensions and global conflict.

Commenting on the exhibition, Holburne director, Chris Stephens said, “I am so excited by ‘Ancient Landscape, Modern Times’ which will bring together some of the most beautiful and compelling images of modern British art and consider them within the very particular contexts of the times in which they were made, a period of modernisation and of political drama.”

Exhibition Highlights

Exhibition Details

Ancient Landscape, Modern Times
Saturday 3 October 2026 - Sunday 10 January 2027

The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath, BA2 4DB

Opening times:
Monday - Saturday: 10am-5pm (last admission 4.30pm)
Sunday (and Bank Holidays): 11am-5pm (last admission 4.30pm)

Admission:
Your ticket includes entry to the collection and all exhibitions.
Adults: £16.50 (Gift Aid eligible)
19-25 Year Old: £8 (Gift Aid eligible)
18 and Under: Free

Learn more: www.holburne.org/