Exhibition in Focus: Joseph Wright of Derby at the National Gallery and Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Joseph Wright of Derby, Self-Portrait in a Black Feathered Hat, about 1767-70 (detail). Charcoal heightened with white chalk on paper, 53.3 x 36.8 cm. Derby Museum and Art Gallery (1953-186). © Derby Museums.
Wright of Derby: From the Shadows is the first major exhibition dedicated to the British artist’s ‘candlelight’ paintings.
Challenging the traditionally held view of Wright of Derby as a figurehead of the Enlightenment, this exhibition contributes to the ongoing re-evaluation of the artist, portraying him as much more than a ‘painter of light’. More than virtuoso scenes of dramatic light and shade, Wright of Derby used the night-time to explore deeper and more sombre themes, including death, melancholy, morality, scepticism and the sublime.
With over twenty works, including other paintings, mezzotints, works on paper and objects the exhibition explores both Wright of Derby’s artistic practice and the historic context of scientific and artistic development in which they were made. 17 works come from Derby Museums: Derby was Wright’s hometown in the East Midlands, a region at the heart of Britain’s industrial landscape in the 1700s. Born in 1734, Joseph Wright grew up in the thriving market town, and for the rest of his life he would be heavily linked to the area and its people. Upon his arrival in London 1751, he joined the studio of the prominent portrait painter Thomas Hudson. With Hudson, Wright learnt the art of portrait painting, mastering the careful depiction of textiles, skin and facial features. Portrait painting would be a commercial necessity for Wright and remained a crucial strand of his work for income, artistic profile and networking purposes. Wright soon realised however, that to raise his professional standing he had to broaden his range into other genres. With this, his famous candlelight pictures were born.
Throughout his life, Wright worked hard to be admired by regional, national and international audiences. He was experimental and expressive, painting characterful portraits and shadowy scenes that still excite audiences today.
Organised in partnership with Derby Museums, Wright of Derby: From the Shadows is on display at the National Gallery, London, until 10 May 2026 and Derby Museum and Art Gallery from 13 June to 1 November 2026.
