Often forgotten, is the fact that in the mid 19th century, Liverpool was a key supporter of radical artistic movements, such as the Pre Raphaelites (considered cosy as a hearthside rug today; but in their day considered as weird and offensive as anything by Damien Hirst & co).
In the early 1850s, The Pre Raphaelites - in particular William Holman Hunt - were at the point of giving up and getting regular day jobs, when the Liverpool Academy kicked in and awarded Hunt their annual £50 prize, just as he was on the verge of destitution. It saved his career.
div>
Support for Pre Raphaelite painting over the following years eventually split the academy, and ultimately lead to its breakup. But Hunt never forgot his debt to Liverpool - and many years later, allowed the Walker Art Gallery to buy his painting: 'The Triumph of the Innocents' for a knockdown price, as a token of his gratitude.
Bookmarks