Looking for saints through the collection

Embark on a revealing tour through the Gallery’s collection with expert guide Matthew Sutherland as he traces through the stories, symbols and traditions behind the depictions of saints in these historic paintings.

Discover how artists across centuries have portrayed these revered figures through iconography, colour, minute gestures and settings. Learn how to identify these subtle clues that bring their narratives to life. Matthew offers a fresh perspective on familiar paintings, inviting you to uncover the sacred threads woven throughout the collection.

Matthew Sutherland is an art historian with a BA in History of Art, an MA from Kingston University in Art Market and Appraisal and an MA from UCL in Museums and Galleries in Education. He is a qualified London Blue Badge guide who specialises in guiding London’s many art museums and galleries and is a member of the team of Blue Badge guides who regularly guide the National Gallery.