The life and work of Barbara Hepworth (1903 -1975) reads like a progressive fairy tale: a degree in sculpture, a scholarship to the Royal College of Art, friendships with the two sculptors Henry Moore and Richard Bedford, an art trip to Florence, a stay in Rome, two divorces, four children, including triplets, Grand Prix at the São Biennale, honorary memberships of the two British orders CBE (1958) and DBE (1965), European tour, trustee for the Tate.
The Second World War thwarted the utopia with a dark chapter: Hepworth and her second husband Nicholson were evacuated to St. Ives in Cornwall. The Wakefield native then spent the second half of her life in this town of 11,000 people - and today Hepworth is a great source of pride for the town. Ultimately, she advanced to become one of the most important sculptors of the 20th century, making references to the Cornish landscape and pre-war ideals.
The London Tate Gallery's offshoot in her second home of St. Ives is therefore constantly spreading Hepworth's story. Beginning Nov. 26, the museum will present a solo exhibition of the sculptor's work, brought to life by the Hepworth-Wakefield Museum. Barbara Hepworth: Art & Life focuses on Hepworth's life in Cornwall and brings together her most significant works. Devotees of the sculptor walk over to Hepworth's home, studio and the Sculpture Garden at the Barbara Hepworth Museum after the exhibition, where her work is on permanent display. Barbara Hepworth: Art & Life ends May 1, 2023.
