In focus: Giovanni Bellini

Giovanni Bellini belonged to one of the most important artistic dynasties in 15th-century Venice. His father, Jacopo, had worked across Italy and trained with the illustrious artist Gentile da Fabriano. He would pass his skill as a draughtsman down to his two sons, Giovanni and Gentile.

Growing up at a time when Venice was the major maritime power of Europe, the Bellini brothers reflected the city's magnificence in their paintings.

Gentile produced panoramic images showing miraculous happenings, set in the reality of the Renaissance city.

Giovanni created religious paintings, altarpieces and portraits that combined superb draughtsmanship with a rich colour palette, suffused with a clear and beautiful light. His gem-like altarpieces and serene Madonnas are some of the most beautiful of Venetian paintings. His forceful portrait of Doge Leonardo Loredan, resplendent in his damask robes and set against a sky-blue background, makes one of the cities lesser figure-heads into an unforgettable image of authority.

In this talk, we shall explore Giovanni’s paintings and his influence against the background of the remarkable city that was his home.

Jo Walton has lectured for The Arts Society for over 15 years, specialising in the art and architecture of the Italian Renaissance, as well as aspects of British 20th-century painting and sculpture. She has also worked extensively with The Art Fund, The Friends of Dulwich Picture Gallery and local art groups around the UK and was a volunteer guide at Tate Britain and Tate Modern for over a decade.

Can't make the session but don't want to miss out? No problem, you can watch again.

The session is recorded and made available to you for 2 weeks.

A video of the week's lecture will be uploaded and available for you to watch via your National Gallery account on Friday.

This is an online ticketed course hosted on Zoom. Please book a ticket to access the course.

Only one ticket can be booked per account.

You will be emailed an E-ticket with instructions on how to access the course via your National Gallery account. All course information including your Zoom link, weekly handouts, and recordings will be available here.